The City of Springfield Department of Finance is pleased to announce it will host a free workshop designed to inform interested business owners about the procurement process. Business owners who are interested in learning how to do business with the Commonwealth of Massachusetts are encouraged to attend this event entitled "Pathways to Procurement."

Authorities from the State Division of Operational Services will facilitate the workshop, which will provide an overview and understanding of public procurement. It is designed to inform interested bidders about the procurement process; CommPASS, which provides public access to state contracts for all interested parties by providing a single point of contact for procurement in Massachusetts; Operational Services Division programs; and information on marketing to public entities.

Chief Financial Officer Mary Tzambazakis said the workshop is an ideal tool to help Springfield business owners learn how to take advantage of the millions of dollars the state spends per year in contracts. “There are many thriving businesses right here at home that are producing exemplary products and services. This is an opportunity to help many of those businesses to elevate to the next level. I know that given the opportunity, Springfield businesses will deliver."

"Pathways to Procurement" will take place on November 19 from 9:30 to 1 p.m. at the Kasparian Center, 60 Alton St. Seating is limited and registration is required. This class is expected to fill up quickly, so register early.

To register, email OSDOutreach@state.ma.us. The email should include: date and location of workshop, your name, email address, phone number, business name and address, whether or not your business is SOMWBA certified, description of business (live animal, clothing, footwear, energy/fuel/utilities, Fire/EMS, food/groceries, homeland security only, healthcare/toiletries, human/social services, IT software & services, telecommunications, safety/law enforcement/protection, healthcare, office/recreation/education, professional services, vehicle/transportation/road maintenance.)

For further information, please call Azell Cavaan at 413-787-7892.