NEWS & INSIGHTS

The “anti-DEI clause” has begun reshaping how businesses engage with the federal government

In recent months, the SBA 8(a) Business Development Program has undergone one of its most significant shifts in years. Increased scrutiny, enforcement actions, and tighter eligibility requirements have raised concerns among small businesses leading many to ask: Is the program still worth it?

While it does not result in an immediate contract award, an RFI plays a critical role in shaping future opportunities and positioning your business to win them.

For the second consecutive year, Aventi Enterprises is partnering with EPiC Learning Today to support small business growth through the Smashing Your Sales Goals Velocity Accelerator. The continued collaboration equips entrepreneurs with the skills needed to strengthen their sales performance while expanding their access to government and corporate contracting opportunities.

The U.S. Department of Transportation issued an Interim Final Rule (IFR) that fundamentally alters the DBE program’s eligibility criteria. The key change removes the longstanding race- and gender-based presumptions previously used to classify individuals as socially and economically disadvantaged. As a result of the IFR, state UCPs are currently instructed to remove DBE participation goals from affected contracts until revisions under new standards are complete.

Summer programming under the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) represents one of the most accessible entry points for small and mid-sized businesses (SMBs) seeking workforce development contracts. WIOA requires that a significant portion of youth funding be dedicated to serving out-of-school and in-school youth, and summer employment and career exploration programs are a primary vehicle for meeting this mandate. WIOA summer programming contracts are typically re

The City of Columbus has announced the launch of its Small Regional Business Enterprise (SRBE) certification program.

The State of Texas no longer recognizes the TexasHUB certification in its traditional form. The long-standing program has been formally restructured and replaced with a new program called VetHUB, Veteran Heroes United in Business.

As 2026 unfolds, small businesses are operating in a markedly different environment than just a few years ago. Higher interest rates, cautious corporate spending, evolving public-sector procurement rules, and increased competition have shifted the definition of “growth.” Growth is no longer defined by speed or volume. Rather than chasing every opportunity, the businesses positioned to grow this year are concentrating on a few high-impact strategies that create stability and s

Canada, including the Province of Ontario, has implemented procurement restriction measures that limit the participation of U.S.-based businesses in publicly funded contracting opportunities. Under these rules, U.S. suppliers may only be considered under narrowly defined and exceptional circumstances, such as when no suitable domestic alternatives are available.

(Columbus, OH) We are pleased to share upcoming contracting opportunities with to the Columbus City Schools district available through Public Purchase:   Bid ITB #1097 - (10) Cargo Vans - Outfitting for Maintenance & Repair Public Purchase: Bid ITB #1097 - (10) Cargo Vans - Outfitting for Maintenance and Repair Due 1/12/2026   Bid RFP #1096 - Absence and Substitute Management Services Public Purchase: Bid RFP #1096 - Absence and Substitute Management Services Request for Prop

One critical area that often gets overlooked at the end of the year is contract preparation. This checklist guides you through practical steps to review, organize, and prepare for contract growth so you can start the new year with confidence.

Aventi joined more than 750 economic development leaders from across Central Ohio at the record-setting ED411 convening. With record attendance, ambitious goals, and a shared commitment to building the workforce and industries of the future, the Columbus Region is well-positioned for another decade of strong economic growth.

Aventi Enterprises (Aventi) proudly hosted a successful Supplier Outreach session on November 11, 2025, in partnership with Columbus City Schools (CCS), as part of our ongoing role as the District’s Outreach Services Consultant.

As a growing business, one of the most strategic decisions you’ll make is choosing who your primary customers will be. Should you focus solely on selling to other businesses (B2B)? Should you pursue contracts with government agencies (B2G)? Or is it best to serve both? The answer depends on your goals, capacity, industry, and risk tolerance. Let’s break down the pros and cons of each model and explore why a combination approach might give your business the edge. The B2B Model

In November 2025, during the NAWBO Columbus luncheon, I had the privilege of interviewing Makeda Mathews, Supplier Diversity Manager at Delta Air Lines. Her insights were both practical and inspiring, especially for business owners seeking to break into corporate supply chains. While government contracting often dominates supplier conversations, Makeda reminded the audience that corporate contracting is its own ecosystem with its own rules, expectations, and pathways to oppo

Aventi Enterprises assumes the role of Outreach Services Consultant for Columbus City Schools to strengthen their Local and Economically Disadvantaged Enterprise (LEDE) vendor program.

The impact of a federal government shut down can ripple down to small businesses through contracting, financing, regulatory approvals, and even local consumer demand. Understanding these ripple effects can help business owners respond strategically and protect their operations until the government reopens.

Budgets are closing out, agencies are moving quickly to obligate remaining funds, and competition for contracts is at its peak. Understanding the forecast for contract opportunities in Q4 2025 will help you position your business for success.

Pilot projects and phased contracts are becoming a preferred way for buyers to test and build relationships with small businesses. If you know how to position yourself for these opportunities, they can be your stepping stone to bigger wins.