IBSA Newswire...

kanuru shivaji

2009-11-29T00:02:00.001-06:00

All CSN Club games online!!! Start playing and winning real money!!!

2009-11-28T08:19:00.000-06:00

Are your incomes not capable to satisfy your needs? Millions people collide with such situation worldwide. We suggest you an effective way to solve this problem once and for all. We don't promise you gold mountains, but some thousand dollars a month is the reality, which everyone, including you, can achieve!

Click!

KLHYKJFHLJH YFLJUY

2009-11-27T23:30:00.000-06:00

Click!

Do you love gifts? Today our online-casino «Elite Casino» gifts excellent presents to each player. Visit our casino today, choose the most suitable gambling for you, make the minimal deposit and multiply the money tens times. It isn't a joke; it is a real way to earn a lot!

King's Cafe Holiday Menu Special - Beat the Holiday Rush

2009-11-20T17:20:00.000-06:00

Please make your holiday orders by the Dec. 15, 2009

King's Cafe

Cookie/Bars

Whole Wheat Dark Chocolate Chip Cookies w/Pecan

Soft and chewy Dark Chocolate chip cookie made with whole wheat flour and chopped pecans.

Sinckerdoodles

Soft and chewy sugar cookie dusted with cinnamon and sugar.

Cream cheese Cookies w/ Pecan

Soft cream cheese cookie made with chopped pecan.

Brownies

Dark Chocolate fudge brownies made with chopped pecan.

Lemon Bars

A shortbread crust with a sweet and tangy lemon filling made with fresh lemon juice.

Rice Krispie Treats

A buttery and crispy, chewy treat.

Cakes
Cream Cheese Pound Cake
A rich and moist dense cake.

Red Velvet Cake****

A rich and moist cake with a hint of chocolate topped with a cream cheese icing and chopped pecan.

Call Us At: (785) 783-7080

Email Us At: KingsCafe08@yahoo.com

Pies

Buttermilk Pie

A buttery and flaky crust filled with rich buttermilk custard.

Pecan Pie

A buttery and flaky crust filled with a great crust filling and pecans.

Pumpkin Pie

A butter and flaky crust filled with a sweet pumpkin custard.

Sweet potato Pie

A buttery and flaky crust filled with a sweet potato custard.

Candy

Truffles

A rich dark chocolate candy that will melt in your mouth coated in cocoa, powder sugar or chopped nuts.

Angle Marshmallows

Homemade Marshmallows cut into Angle shape

Candied Pecans

Fresh whole pecans coated in a candied coating with a hint of cayenne

Others

Cookie Dough

24ct. of Cookie dough of your choice.

Spicy Dark Hot Chocolate Mix

A 8oz bag of Dark Hot Cocoa mix with a hint of cayenne pepper .

Graham Crackers

12 each of Homemade Graham Crackers

All of the Sweet Treats are made with real butter, no hydrogenated oils or artificial flavors.

AARA-Related Update from the KCC State Energy Office

2009-11-16T18:13:00.000-06:00

ARRA-related Update from the KCC State Energy Office

November 16, 2009

EFFICIENCY KANSAS LOAN PROGRAM

General News

§ The new and improved Efficiency Kansas web site is now up and running at www.efficiencykansas.com (same URL as former mini site).

§ We just released Version 3.0 of the Efficiency Kansas Program Manual, with new sections for customers and contractors. You can view and download from the web site.

§ We will officially launch the program tomorrow, November 17, 2009, with press conferences in Topeka and Wichita.

§ As of today, we are pleased to announce that we have 14 Partner Lenders, with 89 branches statewide, and one Partner Utility, Midwest Energy, offering Efficiency Kansas loans.

Energy Auditor Training Scholarships

§ We continue to award scholarships for energy auditor training and have given out roughly 70 of the 100 available scholarships. See the Efficiency Kansas web site for more information and for a full list of Efficiency Kansas qualified auditors.

RENEWABLE ENERGY INCENTIVES PROGRAM

§ We will send another update in the next week or so, with more details about this program and how to apply. Thanks for your continued patience, as we work to get things finalized.

GovFest for Entrepreneurs

2009-11-12T11:15:00.001-06:00

GovFest for Entrepreneurs

November 19, 2009
10 a.m. - 8:30 p.m.
Johnson County Central Resource Library,
9875 W. 87th St., Overland Park, KS 66212

Many government and non-profit agencies are available to help businesses start and grow for little or no cost. GovFest brings these agencies together, providing easy access for the beginning entrepreneur or the small business seeking help to grow. Representatives from local agencies will attend this year's event, including: Kansas Small Business Development Center, KCSourceLink, Bureau of Labor Statistics, Kansas State Data Center, Heartland Procurement Technical Assistance Center and many more.

There is no cost to attend and no reservations required. For more information check www.jocolibrary.org/govfest or contact the Library at (913) 495-9100.

Holiday Photo Cards by Heavenly Visions Photography

2009-11-10T12:03:00.001-06:00

PLEASE GET THE WORD OUT

HOLIDAY PHOTO CARDS

HEAVENLY VISIONS PHOTOGRAPHY

from your images taken at our studio

or at your home

12-4x6 photo cards for $25.00

For additional information

or to schedule a photo session

CONTACT YOLANDA

785 608-3291

4-1-9 Designs Offers Airbrush Tattoo's and Face Painting

2009-11-02T20:37:00.001-06:00

Temporary Airbrush Tattoo's and Face Painting Service

419Designs is a Topeka #1 Mobile

Temporary Airbrush Tattoo's and face Painting Service.

Available for events of all sizes and occasions with guests of all ages.

We come to your party or event!

To entertain your guests by airbrushing temporary tattoo's and face art.

When it comes to airbrushed tattoo's and face paintings, we offer the ultimate.

Provide your event with a fun experience.

Art work that last for days after the event is over.

Airbrush Tattoo's and Face Painting are fun and quick.
Which make them a great idea for large crowds!

We do private and corporate parties

Grand openings,

High school events, prom and homecoming,

Festivals and spring events

Select from over 300 designs such as classic rose, butterflies, dolphins, dragons, Celtic, island, tribal designs, and much more

Choose from one color or customize with multiple colors and glitter for effects.

*Services Include*

Tattoo and face painting stencils.

All supplies and materials needed to produce tattoo's and face art work.

One custom design tattoo with your company name or logo.

For booking information contact:

Sue Rodriguez at 785-215-9148

E-Mail: suerodriguez@419designs.com

Visit the website at: www.419Designs.com

Also visit us at the store located in the West Ridge Mall, Topeka Kansas

Upper Level Next to Sears

Enterprising Women's Forum

2009-10-25T17:20:00.000-05:00

I would like to extend an invitation to you to attend my second series of enterprising women. It is FREE and only requires approximately 2 hours of your time.

Please see the attached flyer and RSVP to me as soon as you can. The presenters are trying to get a head count for gifts and other information to distribute. Bring a guest with you.

I hope you can make plans to attend.

November 4, 2009 2:00 - 3:30 p.m. Metropolitan Community College Blue River Campus 20301 East 78 Highway, Education Center, Room 110 Independence, Missouri 64057-2052
Chris Kelly
Program Coordinator
Supplier Diversity
3200 Broadway
Kansas City, MO 64111
Phone: 816-759-1106 (effective 12/5, my phone number will change to 816-604-1106)
Fax: 816-759-1221
Email: Chris.Kelly@mcckc.edu

"Your gifts can take you somewhere, but you need character to keep you there".

Connect with African women owned businesses

2009-10-21T20:04:00.000-05:00

---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Felicia Davis <iask@bellsouth.net>
Date: Mon, Oct 12, 2009 at 10:52 PM

Lazone,

Please share this with any women owned businesses interested in connecting with African women owned businesses and/or participating in a small business fair in Copenhagen this December during the UN Climate Change Conference (Dec. 9-18). I am just back from a UN meeting in Bangkok.

Here is a press release: http://ncbcp.org/news/releases/BWR_thailand/

Felicia

--
Ms Rosemary Olive Mbone Enie
Geologist/Gender Ambassador
CEO/President SWEET Africa Foundation
P O Box 1075, Limbe Cameroon
Tel: +237 99580292

'No Climate Justice without Gender Justice'

KTEC PIPELINE Accepting Applications for 2010 Fellowship

2009-10-14T10:44:00.001-05:00

KTEC PIPELINE is accepting applications for the 2010 Fellowship! The application deadline is October 19, 2009

KTEC PIPELINE is the nation's premier state-sponsored technology entrepreneur fellowship program designed to facilitate your dynamic growth in Kansas. PIPELINE Innovators are the best technology entrepreneurs Kansas has to offer. Becoming a member of this selective group introduces you to the network, peers, mentors, skills and resources to help you for the rest of your entrepreneurial career.

Dates:

Oct. 19: Application deadline

Nov. 4-5: First Round Interviews

Dec. 8-9: Final Round Interviews

Jan. 21: "Innovator of the Year"

Favorable candidates for PIPELINE will likely have the following characteristics:

Bachelor's degree
Currently running or contemplating a technology-oriented business in Kansas
At least 3 years of business or scientific management experience
Ability to take feedback and integrate advice and counsel into his/her work
Willingness to work toward scaling/growth in his/her business
Ability to manage uncertainty and ambiguity and to take measured risk
Strong interpersonal and communication skills

For more information on how to apply and for more information about the program, please visit:

www.ktecpipeline.com
or call 913.307.0004

IBSA is in America's Giving Challenge—Let's win $50,000!

2009-10-08T22:21:00.001-05:00

Hi everyone, Our cause just entered in America's Giving Challenge, which gives us a chance to win $50,000! Please donate today: http://www.causes.com/donations/select_donation_method?cause_id=93992 To win, between now and November 7th we have to get the most donations to our cause (every person can donate once per day and have it count as a unique donation). We can also win daily awards of $1,000 and $500 if we can get the most people to donate in any 24-hour period. The great thing about this Challenge is that it doesn't matter how much you give, but instead how much you do to encourage friends and family to get involved in our cause. We all need to come together and start promoting the cause if we want to win. Each of us has tons of friends on Facebook who we can ask to donate to our cause. But let's think big too—can you put our cause in your email signature, can you throw a party and get people to donate through the cause when they enter, can you organize other people to go out and fundraise from all of their friends? As you reach out to your friends be sure to tell them why this cause matters to you. The possibilities are endless so let's talk about what we can do to win on the Wall of the cause or by replying to this bulletin. I think we can do it! But it's going to take all of us. Check out the Giving Challenge ( www.causes.com ), then visit our cause to see how we're doing so far and get involved. Donate right now by going to http://www.causes.com/donations/select_donation_method?cause_id=93992 Let's win $50,000 for our cause!

--
IBSA, Inc.
President/CEO
(913) 735-4272 KC Metro
(785) 422-0761 Topeka Office
lazoneg@ibsa-inc.org

"With confidence, you have won before you have started." ~ M. Garvey

Local Agency Promotes New Marketing Opportunity for Nonprofits and Small Business

2009-10-03T22:17:00.001-05:00

News Release - - -

TOPEKA - IBSA, Inc., a nonprofit agency based in Topeka, will be hosting a presentation about a new opportunity for nonprofits and small startup and existing businesses. The "i SHOP to GIVE" initiative will be presented at the Topeka/Shawnee County Public Library on Friday, Oct. 16 at 6:00pm; and on Saturday, Oct. 17 at 9:00am. Attendance is free.

i SHOP to GIVE helps nonprofit agencies raise funds by leveraging their connection with existing businesses or startups via the Internet. Through an innovative 'Webstore', business owners obtain increased exposure to promote and sell their goods or services to a wide-range of online shoppers that allow a percentage of their purchases to go to the nonprofit organization of their choice. Lora Bitting, Regional Leader and Doris Williams, Resource Representative for i SHOP to GIVE will be the guest speakers on both days and will also be available to meet with interested nonprofits and vendors one-on-one. Call (888) 458-8516 Ext. 101

ABOUT IBSA, Inc.
IBSA is a nonprofit tax-exempt organization that provides assistance and referral to other available resources. Direct services provided include job readiness counsel for in-demand occupations, minority business development and support services, and constructive activities for youth and young adults. For more information on this upcoming event, contact IBSA at (785) 422-0761.

CONTACT:
IBSA, Inc.
Lazone Grays, President
(785) 422-0761

###

Marketing Opportunity with i SHOP to GIVE

2009-09-28T23:15:00.000-05:00

Introducing i SHOP to GIVE, Inc. (www.ishoptogive.com)

The Company's goal is to help non-profits, existing businesses and startups in these difficult financial times

In October 2009, Lora Bitting and I will be in the Topeka and Kansas City area introducing this new and innovative partnership during a three-day period of October 15 - October 17.

IBSA, Inc. will sponsor the presentations at Topeka Shawnee County Library

Friday evening, October 16 6:00 to 8:00 PM.

Saturday morning, October 17 9:00 to 11:00 AM

We will gladly meet with other non-profits and vendors on a one to one basis. Corporate Headquarters will make final decision of acceptance.

Read on:

Impact of the 2007-09 Economic Recession on Nonprofit Organizations

(Excerpt)

A range of coping strategies

To achieve this result in the face of such serious economic conditions, nonprofits have displayed unusual resolve and launched a host of inventive coping strategies:

• Well over half of all organizations have launched new or expanded fund-raising efforts, targeting individuals, state and local government, the federal government, and foundations.

• Finally, substantial numbers of organizations are stepping up their marketing and their advocacy.

Let us help you finance your vision for a better world by offering a unique way to raise funds for your organization.

iShop to Give, Inc. (iShop) has established an innovative new webstore that offers a variety of goods and sevices for sale. A varying percentage of every product sold through our webstore is given back to a nonprofit selected by the iShop to Give customer. Buy your favorite products while supporting your favorite nonprofit. Shopping online never felt so good!

Non-Profit Sign Up

http://www.ishoptogive.com/shop/cart.php?m=content&page=6

LETTER OF INTENT

Dear Non-profit,

On behalf of our passionate team at iShop to Give, Inc. (iShop), I would like to thank you for your commitment and diligence in equipping our communities, empowering our nation, and literally changing lives locally and, in many cases, worldwide. Your work is vital in an age when families are crumbling, youth are turning to suicide, and people are losing their financial security. Amidst the trials that modern society faces, it is the organizations such as yours that operate as vessels to mend the brokenness and combat the devastation of our time. We have founded iShop as an independent, purpose-driven, revenue-generating powerhouse for your organization. Our vision is to help free you financially in order for you to fulfill your vision to even greater, more penetrating extents. (See website for complete letter)

Sincerely,

Michael A. Langlois

President

715.630.4311

m.langlois@ishoptogive.com

For startup companies with small budgets, gaining an advantage for your new business or a new product through advertising is both a challenging and risky venture. Once the initial budget is gone, there are seldom second chances.

A good public relations strategy is an alternative to advertising. Effective PR is a cost-effective way to gain editorial exposure for your product, get more leads, generate more sales and build a great brand.

Become a Vendor Become a contributing company

If your company is interested in building a relationship with iShopToGive.com and would like to sell your products on our I Shop to Give Webstore, please contact us. After we review your submission, we will contact you, usually within two business days.

*Pre-Qualification letter attached**

Lora Bitting, CHTP, CBeP, EFTP (Regional Leader)

lbiting@ishoptogive.com (918) 816- 9545

For additional questions or concerns contact Doris or Lora..

1.) Download Vendor's Pre-qualification attachment.**

2.) Doris' email address: ishop_togive@sbcglobal.net

3.) Doris' phone number is 1-888-458-8516 x101

--
IBSA, Inc.
Lazone Grays, President/CEO
(913) 735-4272 KC Metro
(785) 422-0761 Topeka Office
lazoneg@ibsa-inc.org

First Step FastTrac: Certification Training Notice

2009-09-24T22:06:00.000-05:00

FYI

WANT TO HELP ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT IN TOPEKA

Why not start here by joining us for the

First Step FastTrac®

FACILITATION CERTIFICATION OPPORTUNITY OFFERED IN TOPEKA KANSAS

Certification Program Information:

The First Step FastTrac® (FSFT) certification process includes a 1 day facilitator certification session. The facilitator training will involve an In-depth look at the curriculum and provide knowledge and support to the Facilitation team and program participants. This course will help you understand the principles introduced in the First Step FastTrac® Entrepreneur's Handbook and will assist you in using the First Step FastTrac® Facilitators guide.

Training Date: October 30, 2009

Time: 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Location: Entrepreneurial Synergy Training Center

3625 SW 29^th Street

Topeka, Kansas

(785) 215-8867

Pre-registration is required

Please contact us at ensynergy@aol.com for a registration form or call the Entrepreneurial Synergy Training Center at 785 215.8867 for additional details.

For a registration form, please e-mail ensynergy@aol.com or ensynergy@cox.net

Agenda for the Facilitator Certification

Saturday, October 25 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

The Facilitator Certification session begins at 9:00 a.m. after breakfast,and dismisses at 5:00 p.m. Lunch and snacks also provided.

8:30 a.m. Breakfast and Networking

9:00 a.m. Session begins

10:30 a.m. Morning break (snacks provided)

12:00 Lunch

2:30 p.m. Afternoon break (snacks provided)

5:00 p.m. Adjournment

Certification Fees (per attendee)

* $200.00 for FSFT Certification Program

Travel and hotel costs are the responsibility of the attendees

Hotel information

If necessary, First Step Fund may arrange for a block of rooms to be held for attendees. Pre-registration is required for this arrangement.

Rates typically range from $100.00 to $135.00 per night. More details will follow once we receive your registration form.

YWomenCAN - October 10th Hands-On Workshop in KCK

2009-09-24T21:57:00.001-05:00

YWomenCAN Hands-On Workshop
Saturday October 10, 2009
8:30 a.m. Registration
9:00 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.
Three Part Workshop
YWCA of Greater Kansas City

$10 Non-refundable registration fee payable to the YWCA by check or credit card
Morning snack and lunch provided

Presented by:
The Builder's Association/Heavy Constructor's Association, Heartland Habitat For Humanity's Women Build, Era Environmental & Safety, Inc., Ruth Blick & The YWCA's YWomen CAN

Call Jennifer Gruber at (913) 371-1105 to pre-register and pay by September 29, 2009.

Hey ladies!
Would you like to know how to repair your drywall, learn basic tool use and find out about getting rid of mold, lead and asbestos? You can learn some useful skills for working around your own home and at the same time find out if you might be interested in pursuing a career in any of these areas.

Drywall Repair
Learn the basics of working with drywall. Do you have small nail holes that need fixing? Have a hole in your wall that your dog has chewed through? The workshop will provide training on how to patch both small and large holes as well as the basic fundamentals of drywall.

Remediation
What can you do about that pesky mold in your house? How do you know if you have a lead paint or asbestos problem? Where do you find asbestos, lead based paint, mold and how do you manage it safely?

Basic Tool Use
Do you wish you could do some of those home maintenance jobs yourself but have no idea which tools to use or how to use them? Do you think you have an aptitude for working with your hands but have never been formally introduced to the safe and efficient use of tools?

Participants will rotate through all three areas in groups of 10. During lunch participants will learn about:

*   Career opportunities in the building trades
*   Volunteer and learning opportunities through Heartland Habitat for Humanity's Women Build Project
*   Careers in the abatement and remediation and upcoming opportunities to be trained in these fields
*   And opportunities to explore nontraditional/green careers though YWomen CAN.

We can only accommodate 30 women for this workshop so please register early to reserve your spot!

YWCA of Greater Kansas City
1017 N. 6th St.
Kansas City, KS 66101
913-371-1105

Inclusive Business Initiative

2009-09-08T19:48:00.000-05:00

Inclusive Business Initiative E-Newsletter, September 8, 2009

Updates: The Inclusive Business Initiative at the MBDA Summit

The Inclusive Business Initiative participated in the Minority Business Development Agency MBE Summit in July, making a presentation on minority business programs at the state and local government level. InBiz Director, Tim Lohrentz, joined a panel moderated by Benita Fortner of Raytheon Corp, with Glenn Delgado, Chair of the federal OSDBU Directors Council, talking about federal MBE procurement programs, and Steven Sims, V.P. of the National Minority Supplier Development Council, talking about corporate supplier diversity programs. Tim spoke about the need to replicate best practices across states, counties, and cities.

Inclusive Business Practices in new ABA Book on Community Economic Development

We are proud that Roger Clay, President of the Insight Center, recently co-edited a guidebook Building Healthy Communities: A Guide to Community Economic Development for Advocates, Lawyers and Policymakers, published by the American Bar Association. The 500-page book is full of useful, practical information, on topics ranging from "The Use of Tax-Exempt Bonds for Community Economic Development", "New Markets Tax Credits", and "Assets and Community" to "Inclusive Business Practices," written by InBiz Director Tim Lohrentz.

Insight Center Makes a Statement to US Senate on Small Business Access to Health Care

The Insight Center was one of 18 national organizations, through the Unity Group, to make a July 23 statement to the US Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship on the need for greater access to health insurance plans by small businesses. Signature gathering on the statement was led by the Minority Business Enterprise Legal Defense and Education Fund (MBELDEF). The statement read, in part:

"Access to health care and affordable health insurance plans is clearly a subject of great concern to all Americans. Health care costs are skyrocketing and comprehensive health insurance coverage is becoming increasingly difficult to obtain. These are undeniably problems that cause genuine concern and stress to all Americans – especially those Americans who have no health insurance at all. But access to health care, and more specifically the availability of business health insurance plans to cover the employees of small businesses, is also a subject of great concern to minority and women businesses all across the nation."

■ Join the Insight Center's Public Supplier Diversity and M/WBE Programs group on linkedin to discuss governmental sector MWBE contracting and procurement programs.

■ Join the Inclusive Business Initiative on Facebook.

Federal Inclusive Business Updates

Obama Administration Commits to Ensuring M/WBE Contracting Opportunities

The Obama Administration on August 19 reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that minority-owned and small businesses, including women- and veteran-owned businesses, have greater access to federal government contracting opportunities:

"In order for the Federal Government to better meet or exceed the goal of 23 percent of prime contracts for small businesses, Vice President Biden and I have tasked Small Business Administrator Karen Mills and Commerce Secretary Gary Locke with leading a federal government-wide initiative to increase outreach," President Barack Obama said.

"In these tough economic times, the Recovery Act is providing billions of dollars in opportunity and incentives to help businesses grow - and the President and I are committed to ensuring that small and minority-owned businesses are part of our economic recovery every step of the way," said Vice President Joe Biden. "By taking advantage of the expertise of an array of companies, we are going to be able to build a stronger, more secure foundation for long-term economic growth."

Anecdotal evidence is needed for US Congress to Support DBE and M/WBE Programs

We all know that minority and women-owned businesses face discrimination in many contexts, including government contracting. Government contracting programs such as DBE and M/WBE programs can help reduce some of the effects of this discrimination. Let's help Congress and the public understand the importance of preserving these programs by sharing our own stories of business-related discrimination. If you or a business owner you know has experienced discrimination in bonding, zoning, insurance, financing, contracting, or procurement, please contact the Insight Center, inbiz@insightcced.org. We will ensure that a trained Unity Group interviewer will present your story to the US Congress, while protecting your confidentiality.

Monitoring the Recovery Act

The Insight Center is a partner in the FairRecovery.org website, which provides resources to communities of color to monitor the programs and spending of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA). A new chart provides information on many state and local government M/WBE programs. The website also highlights best practice tracking of ARRA dollars by Maryland and Massachusetts. Maryland has also shared its MWBE procurement tracking system on ARRA funds with other states through the Insight Center's M/W/DBE state director network.

MBEs in ARRA Broadband Access Projects

The Recovery Act (ARRA) provides $7.2 billion to increase broadband access (BTOP) in urban (NTIA, Dep't of Commerce) and rural (RUS, USDA) communities. The Minority Media and Telecommunications Council (MMTC) encourages companies and municipalities filing applications for broadband deployment, computer center, adoption and mapping to consider minority-owned companies as subcontractors or partners. Please contact MMTC Executive Director, David Honig, at dhonig@crosslink.net if you know of any minority broadband contractors to add to the list. These companies offer goods and services that many broadband stimulus applicants need. They may be able to deliver a competitive advantage to BTOP (NTIA) and BIP (RUS) applicants under the SDB 8(a) provisions of ARRA. So far only 11 MBE firms from 8 states and D.C. are on MMTC's list, while BTOP funds are going to all 50 states, so if you are aware of any qualified firms in this industry, please help them get added to the list.

David Hinson Named Director of the MBDA

In July, U.S. Commerce Secretary Gary Locke announced the appointment of David Hinson, a St. Louis native with more than 20 years of business experience, as the new administrator of the Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA). This agency is the federal agency created specifically to foster the establishment and growth of minority-owned businesses in the US, through its network of 48 minority business centers throughout the country.

Since 2002, Hinson was President/CEO of Wealth Management Network, Inc., a multi-million dollar independent, financial advisory boutique.

"I'm honored to accept this position and am committed to carrying out Secretary Locke's priority of working with minority entrepreneurs who wish to grow their businesses and increase their capacity," Hinson said. "This work better positions these companies to create jobs, improve local economies and expand operations into national and global markets."

USDOT DBE Bonding Assistance Program

US Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood announced, September 1, $20 million in recovery funds to create the Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) Bonding Assistance Program, an initiative that will help small and disadvantaged businesses better compete for work on transportation projects funded by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA).

Through this new program, which will be administered by the Department of Transportation's Office of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization (OSDBU), small and disadvantaged businesses can apply to be reimbursed for bonding premiums and fees incurred when competing for, or performing on, transportation infrastructure projects funded by ARRA.

The bonding assistance provided by the DBE ARRA BAP will allow DBEs with traditionally less working capital than large transportation-related contractors to perform on transportation infrastructure projects receiving ARRA funding from any DOT mode of transportation. While it will not solve the problem of qualifying, it will certainly allow those that qualify to not be shut out of the running on account of the high cost of bonding. In addition, the assistance provided to the DBE to compete for, and execute contracts for ARRA projects, will position the DBE to compete for future transportation contracts at any tier from any Federal, state, or local transportation agency.

Updates on State M/WBE Programs

New Jersey Governor Corzine Signs EO to Include Minorities in the Recovery Effort

Governor Jon S. Corzine signed August 28 an Executive Order requiring the 109 state agencies, authorities, commission and colleges include underrepresented minorities in the recovery effort. Among other things, the executive order establishes goals for State agencies, authorities, colleges and universities and commissions to contract with minority and women-owned businesses consistent with recommendations made in two disparity studies done by the state. There are specific goals for various types of services and for MBE and WBE sub-groups.

In July 2008, Governor Corzine established, under the Department of Treasury, the Office of Supplier Diversity. The goal was to create a one-stop shopping designation where small, minority and women-owned businesses could receive training, mentoring and information on contracting opportunities in both the public and private sectors.

Florida Increases Certification Period to Two Years

Effective July 1, 2009, the State of Florida now has a uniform certification period of two years through the Office of Supplier Diversity. Previously, there was a two year certification period for service-disabled veteran business enterprises and a one year period for minority and women-owned business enterprises. The two year period should decrease the amount of paperwork required of M/WBEs.

"Equity of opportunity is not the enemy of efficiency...It is the promise of democratic governance."

- Ron Marlow
Assistant Secretary for Access & Opportunity
Commonwealth of Massachusetts

Entrepreneurs As a Solution to Policy Challenges

2009-09-08T19:34:00.000-05:00

SBA Expands Microloan Program
The Small Business Administration (SBA) has expanded its Microloan program as Recovery Act funds are making their way into access to capital programs for small businesses. The increased funds include an additional $50 million for loans and $24 million for technical assistance from the the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. [More]

Entrepreneurs As a Solution to Policy Challenges

In the past few months, we have highlighted through articles and fact sheets how public policy can make the path easier for entrepreneurship and innovation. With the Policy Dialogue on Entrepreneurship, we hope to emphasize not only how policies can foster entrepreneurs, but also how entrepreneurship can directly be part of the answer to so many public challenges.

[More]

Boom in Entrepreneurship Just Down the Road
Earlier this summer, we reported on a that showed Baby Boomers are sparking a rise in entrepreneurship. Last week, Carl Schramm, president and CEO of the Kauffman Foundation, appeared with Erin Burnett and Mark Haines of CNBC's "Squawk on the Street" to discuss the role older entrepreneurs are playing in this recession. [More]

Donate Your Clunker and Appliances to Charity

2009-08-29T17:14:00.000-05:00

Do you or someone you know

have an old vehicle (clunker) that don't run

or you want to get rid of?

Consider donating it to our organization!

You can drive it in or we can come and pick it up.

If it has any cash value, you can possibly take a tax deduction when you file your income taxes or

you will receive a statement for what we receive

when its crushed and recycled!

*Old appliances such as refrigerators or air conditioners welcome.

Donations From Dealerships Are Encouraged

For more info call:

(913) 240-6247 (KC)

(785) 422-0761 (Topeka)

Email: admin@ibsa-inc.org

Web: www.clunkersforcharity.org

(Topeka, Lawrence, Kansas City, Leavenworth Only)

To start a Clunkers for Charity program in your city for your nonprofit, give me a call !

IBSA, Inc. is a nonprofit 501 c.3 tax-exempt organization. Services include job readiness assistance, youth development activities, and business development and support services for construction-based small minority & disadvantaged business concerns. Visit us online at: www.ibsa-inc.org

Seven Must-Know Tips to Win More Business on Ariba Network Discovery

2009-08-27T22:29:00.000-05:00

By Jonathan Rosen, Senior Product Manager, Ariba Network Discovery

As the economy continues to create significant challenges for today's businesses, a growing number of companies are taking advantage of Ariba Network Discovery. Using this unique, cost-free resource is simple. Buying organizations post their purchasing projects online, and the solution then identifies and notifies registered suppliers about opportunities that match their business capabilities.

While it's clear that more buying organizations are using Ariba Network Discovery to find new suppliers, the question is: what separates the suppliers that receive a new business opportunity from those that don't? And what can suppliers do to make themselves stand out?

Customer Insight on Ways to Get Business: Give Me Your Details!
Chris Uriarte, the sourcing manager for Stage Stores, Inc., explains what his company looks for when seeking suppliers on Ariba Network Discovery—and what suppliers can do to improve their odds of being found and winning a contract.

Make sure your profile is complete and up to date. Since the results of customer searches are based on the profile data you provide, the more detail you include in your profile, the better your results will be. To effectively manage your profile, read "Will Buyers Find You? Make Sure They Do with Ariba Network Discovery."

List all commodity codes that apply to your business. Because Ariba Network Discovery works partly by matching your commodity codes (i.e., what you sell) to the opportunities posted by buying organizations, the codes you list are crucial to the response you get. Besides listing the parent commodity, you can expand your categories to match other areas that buying organizations may search. "It's fine to select multiple commodities," Chris points out. For example, a customer might be sourcing a chemical that's used in baking and as a pool supply, so you could include yourself in both those categories. The commodity chooser feature on Ariba Network Discovery makes this task quick and easy.

"Since the results of customer searches are based on the profile data you provide, the more detail you include in your profile, the better your results will be. "

Chris Uriarte, Sourcing Manager, Stage Stores

Communicate with potential customers online in real time. You can send questions, comments, and even suggestions about RFPs directly to buying organizations through Ariba Network Discovery, and they can respond to you directly as well. This is a great way to establish rapport with prospects and ensure that you understand project parameters. It also supports more open communication both before and during the bidding process, which can boost your chances of winning a contract.

Supply comprehensive, professional responses to buyer postings. "We look closely at the way vendors respond to our new business opportunity postings, since that offers valuable information about the kind of company we're dealing with," says Chris. "Are they really professional, or do they just upload a few documents and that's it? That sort of thing tells us what we can expect when doing business with them as well."

Provide detailed pricing information. Break down descriptions of your pricing on specific items and services and supply this information to prospects in an attachment. This makes it easier for them to accurately assess your pricing structure and prevent misunderstandings later on once the contract has been awarded.

Don't focus your response on price alone. "We don't just look for numbers, we look for quality also," says Chris. If your company offers exceptional service, satisfaction guarantees, or other advantages that provide extra value to customers, be sure to point this out—and how it makes working with you more cost-effective in the long run.

Supply solid references. Ariba Network Discovery includes a simple feature that makes it easy to obtain and post references from existing customers, which can greatly enhance your credibility. "It's important to us to check the references of vendors we're considering," notes Chris. "What they tell us definitely affects our decision."

How Do Buying Organizations Use Ariba Network Discovery to Find New Suppliers?
Because the solution dramatically reduces the effort and expense required for sourcing—from as long as six weeks to just a few days—more buying organizations are using it to:

Fill supply needs in new commodity areas recently brought under spend management
Meet vendor diversity requirements for specific contracts such as being a minority-owned, woman-owned, or small disadvantaged business
Discover new suppliers for rush projects that face stringent time constraints
Replace key vendors who have gone out of business due to economic pressures or other problems

So what does this mean for you as a supplier? Simply this: by using Ariba Network Discovery effectively, you can put your business first in line to capitalize on all these opportunities—increasing your chance to land new business in a wide range of areas.

Questions?
To learn more about Ariba Network Discovery or to sign up, go to discovery.ariba.com or call Liz Cuniak at 412.297.8739

Grow Your Construction Business

2009-08-07T17:40:00.001-05:00

ENtrepreneurSHIp

The entrepreneurial spirit is alive and well—and needed in the world. With a Entrepreneurial Training, Development & Support Services, you'll gain the knowledge, skills, and expertise so you can lead the way in bringing your big ideas into reality. This program is limited to entrepreneurs seeking to open or expand a construction-based company or one that requires a bonafide trade skill such as

electrical, plumbing, HVAC, painting, landscaping/lawn care, commercial driving, drywall, insulation installation, roofing, etc.

IBSA has as one of its greatest strength's, its program instructors and mentors who are:

Creative, smart, and entrepreneurs themselves
Teachers who want to help you learn from their successes—and even their failures
Knowledgeable about what it takes to create a business—and to build it into a thriving entity
Skilled at recognizing good ideas that will lead to great businesses

The flexibility of the our program will allow you to increase your body of knowledge without interrupting your life. Course work is offered in a one-on-one setting , and weekend sessions are regularly scheduled.

Through this 45-hour program, you will learn how to:

Evaluate entrepreneurial opportunities in your trade field, including how to pick projects to pursue and how to find the right opportunity for you
Maneuver the logistics of going into business, including finding start-up funding and putting a plan together
Market a business to government, corporations and the general public
Finance and staff a business
Understand the entrepreneurial mindset

With your successful completion of all course-work and assignments, you will receive continued assistance to::

Start, manage, and grow a business
Spot opportunities in your industry
Envision, develop and launch new products or services
Engage in market feasibility analysis and implementation
Gain an understanding of the leadership and management qualities of other entrepreneurs

To find out more about IBSA Training and Development courses, email admin@ibsa-inc.org for more information or speak with our small business development specialist at 913.735.4272.

This program by

IBSA, Inc. is approved training under the federal Workforce Investment Act (WIA) and is provided in coordination with the Kansas Department of Commerce, the Workforce Partnership and other resource partners that can effectively assist our students. If interested, contact your local workforce center representative in Leavenworth, Wyandotte or Johnson County to begin the process for eligibility assessment and for entry into any WIA funded training or program opportunity.

You may be eligible for this program if you live in:

Johnson County Leavenworth County Wyandotte County

POWER Initiative (Partnering Organizations With Essential Resources)

2009-08-07T11:53:00.001-05:00

The Greater Kansas City Chamber of Commerce, through its POWER Initiative (Partnering Organizations With Essential Resources), has created a way to connect buyers interested in working with diverse companies from throughout the Greater Kansas City region.

Buyers: Search MBEWBEConnection.com to easily find minority-owned, women-owned, disadvantaged-owned, and veteran-owned businesses operating in and around the Greater Kansas City region.

Suppliers: Add your information – or update what's already online – by signing up or logging in. Just click on the links below the search box.

Please keep in mind that The Chamber, the Minority Business Alliance, and our partners are not responsible for maintaining business certifications. You may contact the appropriate agency to confirm certification business status.

View a list of local and regional certifying agencies >>

Visit The Chamber's minority business information and program pages via these links:

Looking for minority business development opportunities? POWER Program General Information

Get answers to questions about our minority business development program: POWER Frequently Asked Questions

About the Minority Business Alliance

Resource Portal - view the bid opportunities from local agencies in the Requests for Proposals section

CVA's commitment to diversity: The mission of the Kansas City Convention & Visitors Association is to foster economic growth and quality of life for the region and its residents through marketing, sales and service for the convention, tourism, and hospitality industries, while showcasing the diversity of our community. Diversity in the hospitality industry not only creates dollars... it makes good sense. Contact Jerome Toson to find out how you can get involved: 816-691-3835 or jtoson@visitkc.com.

If you've already signed up, click here to edit your information.

Click here to submit your business.

Find out what certification can do for your business

2009-08-05T19:05:00.001-05:00

Learn how to utilize your certification for contracts and other opportunities!

Learn why you should become a certified vendor and the benefits of becoming certified!

August 21, 2009

Donna Colding of dCm Consulting will moderate a panel discussion, including representatives of the following companies and certifying agencies (and more):

Burns and McDonnell
City of Kansas City, MO
Divine Floral Design
Isle of Capri
Missouri Department of Transportation
State of Kansas-Kansas Department of Commerce
Unified Government of Wyandotte County/KCK

Call (816) 374-5438 or email power@kcchamber.com for more information.

Entrepreneurship Law Website Launched

2009-08-03T11:42:00.000-05:00

Entrepreneurship Law Website

The Kauffman Foundation now offers "e-Law," an online community and tool devoted to expanding legal entrepreneurship curriculum and education.

The eLaw website is made up of two sections. The public section contains current information for lawyers, CPAs, engineers, scientists, and the general public regarding legal issues in entrepreneurship.

The private, academic section of the Web site contains the latest instructional materials for scholars teaching courses in entrepreneurship. Registered members of the academic community are also subscribed to the eLaw listserv, a resource for facilitating interaction and discussion on the most recent entrepreneurship-related education topics.

Six leading legal scholars manage the contents in both sections of the website: Eric Gouvin from Western New England College School of Law, Praveen Kosuri from the University of Pennsylvania Law School, Lisa Lesage from Lewis and Clark Law School, Tony Luppino from University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Law, Thomas Morsch from Northwestern University School of Law, and Helen Scott from the New York University School of Law.

Posted By: Jonathan Ortmans at 07/29/2009 10:50 AM

Kansas Mentors: New Website Launch & Coaches' Challenge Kicks Off

2009-08-03T11:06:00.001-05:00

Join me in sharing this information with your friends....

Kansas Mentors Connection
July/August 2009

Let's recruit more mentors! Here at Kansas Mentors we are celebrating two new outreach efforts to encourage more Kansans to get involved - a newly updated website and the kick-off the 2009 Coaches' Challenge. Read about each below and thank you for your support!

NEW WEBSITE LAUNCHES IN AN EFFORT TO RECRUIT MORE KANSANS

Kansas Mentors is excited to launch a newly redesigned website at: www.kansasmentors.org

The site features an online partner directory of over 175 mentoring programs, resource centers for both mentors and mentoring programs, and connections to Kansas Mentors' social media networks: Facebook, Twitter and YouTube. More features will be unveiled in the upcoming months.

The updated feel is in an effort to connect more Kansans to mentoring efforts throughout the state. Check out the new design today! And please feel free to send us your feedback.

COACHES' CHALLENGE CAMPAIGN KICKS OFF!

2nd Annual Campaign to Recruit New Mentors

With the launch of the new website, Kansas Mentors is pleased to kick-off the 2nd Annual Coaches' Challenge. The campaign is a friendly wager between Coach Bill Snyder and Coach Tom Osborne to see which state, Kansas or Nebraska, can recruit the most new mentors during the 2009 football season.

The number of new mentors will be tracked from August 1 - November 1, with the winner being announced at the K-State Nebraska football game in Lincoln, NE on November 21.

In an effort to promote the challenge and recruit more mentors, Kansas Mentors has developed a promotional toolkit with several items that can be downloaded and customized with your organization's contact information and logo.

To learn more about the Challenge and download the promotional items visit:
http://kansasmentors.kansas.gov/Programs/Pages/CoachesChallenge.aspx

Resources also include a Coaches' Challenge male mentor recruitment toolkit!

Check out the NEWLY RELEASED Coaches' Challenge PSA on Kansas Mentors front page: http://www.kansasmentors.org

Kansas Mentors is going social. Join us on:
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Kansas-Mentors/
Twitter: http://twitter.com/KansasMentors
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/KansasMentors

Be a role model. Be a mentor. www.kansasmentors.org
Kansas Mentors 1000 SW Jackson, Suite 570, Topeka, KS 66612 / (785)296-8873

The price of excellence is discipline. The cost of mediocrity is disappointment. ~ William Arthur Ward