NEWS & INSIGHTS

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.

For many small businesses, government contracts often get the spotlight. But did you know corporate contracts can be just as transformative and sometimes even more accessible?

If your goal is to create consistent revenue in government contracting, learning how to position your company for IDIQs is a smart move.

Artificial intelligence (AI) is emerging as a valuable tool for businesses writing proposals for government and corporate contracts. From accelerating the drafting process to enhancing compliance checks, AI has the potential to save time, improve quality, and increase your win rate. However, using AI in proposal writing requires careful planning and discernment.

You’ve spent hours preparing a proposal, only to see the award go to the same company again and again. You know your business is qualified. So why aren’t you winning?

Over 200 S&P 500 companies have removed terms like “diversity,” “equity,” and “inclusion” from their annual SEC filings in 2025. According to a joint analysis by Harvard and financial researchers, DEI mentions in company reports dropped by nearly 70% over the past two years.

As the year hits its halfway point, it's the perfect time for small businesses to pause, reflect, and reset. Whether you’re pursuing your first government contract or expanding your reach with corporate contracts, a mid-year check-in can help ensure you close out the year strong.