Professional Networking Opportunities Abound at the 2023 SBC

Successful projects are built on the connections they are able to foster and grow. At the upcoming 2023 Federal Small Business Conference, taking place Nov. 1-3, in San Antonio, Texas, attendees will find no shortage of opportunities to meet and connect with colleagues, partners, and federal contracting officers to build and deepen the personal connections so critical to delivering projects in support of our nation’s engineering needs and national security. No matter where you may be in your career–as a student, a young professional, or a seasoned expert–SBC is the place to be to Power Your Priority and grow your professional network.

For Students

On Tuesday, Oct. 31, 1-8 p.m., the College Student Chapter Forum will kick-off SBC. This inaugural event will offer an opportunity to learn from other Student Chapters and Posts to find out what works at the student level, what SAME can do for you, and how to involve young professionals. If you are involved with a Student Chapter as a Student Chapter Mentor, Faculty Advisor, or Student Officer, you are invited to the Forum. RSVPs are required.

In addition, travel stipends are available for a limited number of Student Chapter leaders and Student Chapter Mentors who would otherwise not attend SBC. These stipends include flights to and from San Antonio and overnight accommodations on Tuesday, October 31.

For First-Time Attendees

Being new to the SAME family, or a first-timer at SBC can feel a bit overwhelming. If you fall into one or both of those camps, you are invited to the New Member & First Time Attendee Meet & Greet to get your conference off to a head start. Along with offering tips and tricks on how to make the most out of your time in San Antonio, it’s also a great opportunity to meet with veteran attendees, make new friends, and hit the ground running.

For Young Professionals and Fellows

The popular Young Professionals & Fellows Networking Event returns to SBC to start the conference off in style. Join two of the most energetic and engagement groups within SAME for an evening of fun and “mingling with a purpose.” RSVPs are required.

For Professionals of All Kinds

Whether you are looking for a new teaming partner, engaging in above-board networking between private companies and federal program managers, or just looking to expand your own professional network, SBC has the opportunities you need to meet your priorities. Take advantage of conference-wide networking receptions on Day 1 and Day 2 of the conference to meet with over 500 A/E/C exhibitors in our sold out Exhibit Hall.

Additionally, attendees can take advantage of Matched Networking throughout the conference for one-on-one appointments between attendees and Hosts (Government Agencies/Exhibiting Companies). These meetings will lay the foundation to develop new client-consultant relationships, teaming partners, and more! All appointments are available to Full Conference registrants and are on a first-come, first-serve basis. 

Whatever your priorities might be, an opportunity awaits you at SBC to make advancements on your goals. Take advantage of all that the conference has to offer by downloading the SBC app to stay up to date on conference news, matched networking appointments, exhibitors, and so much more. We look forward to seeing you in San Antonio!