What to Expect at
The VABCC 2025 GovCon ConferenceÂ
The Virginia Black Chamber of Commerce is proud to present GovCon 2025, an unparalleled opportunity to empower, educate, and connect businesses in the dynamic world of government contracting. Join us on Friday, June 6, 2025, at the Richmond Marriott in Richmond, Virginia, to explore strategies for thriving in a rapidly evolving contracting landscape.
Why Attend GovCon 2025?
This year’s theme, "Resilient Futures: Navigating Government Contracting in Changing Times," focuses on equipping businesses with the tools and insights they need to succeed amid uncertainty. From navigating procurement processes and crafting winning proposals to mastering registrations, certifications, and cybersecurity requirements, GovCon 2025 has something for everyone.
Whether you’re a seasoned government contractor or just beginning your journey, this event will provide vital resources, actionable insights, and unparalleled networking opportunities to help you remain steadfast and agile in the face of change.
Breakout Sessions
Dive deep into key topics with tailored breakout sessions that cover everything from federal and local contracting landscapes to cybersecurity, financing, and marketing strategies.
Keynote Speeches from Industry Leaders
Hear inspiring stories and actionable advice from government contracting experts who’ve navigated challenges to achieve success. These dynamic speeches will offer invaluable insights for building resilience and unlocking new opportunities.
Interactive Workshops
Get hands-on experience with workshops focusing on proposal writing, SWaM certifications, and teaming strategies. Walk away with skills you can implement immediately.
Networking Opportunities
Connect with peers, mentors, and influential figures from across the government contracting ecosystem. Build relationships that can open doors to mentoring, partnerships, and future business opportunities.
International Opportunities
Gain new perspectives and learn how to tap into global markets through government contracts, expanding your reach outside traditional boundaries.
Event Agenda at a Glance
7:30 AM - 8:30 AM | A Warm Welcome
Light Breakfast, Registration, Networking & Conference Overview
Start your day with a welcoming atmosphere! Enjoy a light breakfast, connect with fellow professionals, and gain an overview of the day ahead.
8:30 AM - 9:00 AM | Keynote Address | Kindra Dionne
"The Edge of Success: What Competitive Advantage Means in GovCon"
An inspiring and thought-provoking keynote on how to cultivate an edge in both business and government contracting.
9:15 AM - 10:15 AM | Breakout SessionsÂ
"Navigating the Federal Contracting Landscape"
Explore challenges and opportunities in the federal contracting landscape, from compliance to securing contracts."Fuel for Growth: Unlocking Business Financing"
Learn essential tools and strategies to access the capital you need to scale your business."Campus Connections: Partnering with Colleges for Opportunities"
Discover how to collaborate with universities to unlock government contracting opportunities."Building to Win: Competitive Strategies in GovCon"
Discuss actionable strategies for maintaining a competitive edge in the government contracting sector.
10:30 AM - 10:45 AM | Fireside Chat | Reggie Babin
- A dynamic and engaging conversation with an industry leader on navigating success in GovCon, what's happening in the Federal Government Space, and More!
11:15 AM - 12:15 PM | Networking & Exhibitor Time
"Meet & Connect"
Engage directly with exhibitors and primes for collaboration opportunities, partnerships, and potential projects.
12:15 PM - 1:30 PM | Plated Luncheon
"Celebrating Success & Sharing Stories"
Enjoy a delicious plated meal while hearing inspiring success stories from GovCon leaders and showing appreciation to valued sponsors.
1:30 PM - 2:15 PM | Fireside Chat | Abigail Spanberger
"From Insight to Action"
A one-on-one discussion with perspectives on leadership, strategy, and resilience in the world of government contracting.
2:30 PM - 3:15 PM | Breakout Sessions
"From Sub to Prime: Making the Leap"
Explore how partnerships and teaming with large prime contractors can open new avenues for growth."Local & State Opportunities Unleashed"
Uncover lucrative opportunities within local and state government contracting.
3:30 PM - 4:15 PM | Mainstage Business Round Table
"The Vision Ahead: Major Opportunities in Virginia"
Join a roundtable discussion on upcoming contracting opportunities with airports, energy, construction companies, and more.
4:30 PM | Thank You & Farewell
Close out the day with final remarks, thanks, and well wishes as you leave empowered with tools, connections, and ideas to take your GovCon ventures to the next level!
Networking Opportunities Built Into Every Moment!
Whether over breakfast, during panel sessions, or the luncheon, connect with professionals, exchange ideas, and grow your network throughout the day. Don't miss this chance to build relationships and discover real solutions!
Quinn Conyers
Emcee
Abigail Spanberger
Keynote Speaker
Candidate for Governor
Reggie Babin
Keynote Speaker,
Senior Counsel, Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld LLP
Kindra Dionne
Keynote Speaker
Chief Program Officer, HUBZone Contractors National Council
Tommy Marks
Vice President & COO, Capital Region Minority Supplier Development Council (CRMSDC)
Eric George
LinkBank, Vice President, Relationship Manager
Diedre Windsor
Founder & CEO,
Windsor Group LLC
Whitney Stowell
CEO & Founder, Cribworks
Lyndsae' Peele
KIVA US Entrepreneurial Ecosystem Manager
Angel Livas
Founder & CEO,
ALIVE Podcast Network
Rochell Akins
DBE Compliance Coordinator, Capital Region Airport Commission
Wesley Stith
Senior VP, Trade Partner Development & Purchasing, Clark Construction Group
Tami Mullen
Principal Senior Consultant, Intuitive Group
Angela Barber
Business Services Manager, Virginia Department of Small Business Supplier Diversity (SBSD)
Jameelah Scott, VCM, VCO, VCA, VCARM
Executive Procurement Director, Virginia State University
Dr. Sharon Lewis CPM, M.A., MPS, VCO, CPPB
Arlington County Government, Department of Management & Finance
Mark Cartwright, DBA, CPSM, CPSD
Senior Director, Procurement Services, University of Virginia
Porsché I. Klemm White, VCA, VCO
Procurement Analyst, Henrico County Department of Finance, Purchasing Division
Jordan H. Harkless
Business Compliance Specialist
Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority
Ebony Wilkins, PMP, CDFM
President, Aalis Management Consulting
Whitney Roe
Senior Supplier Diversity Program Specialist, Dominion Energy
Exhibitor
Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA)
SBIR/STTR Outreach
ChesterField County Procurment
Coming Soon!
Unparalleled Visibility with an Expanded Audience
Leverage Targeted Marketing Channels
Direct Access to High-Value Networking Opportunities
Position Your Brand as a Leader in Resilience
- Prominent Exposure Through Branding and Recognition
Showcase Your Support for Economic Empowerment
Expanded Reach with Real ROI
Distinguish Yourself from Competitors
