With flags representing nations around the world and soccer-inspired decorations, the Irvington Conference Center was filled with the spirit of teamwork as the fifth Internal Procurement Annual Supplier Showcase (iPASS) proved successful partnerships, much like championship teams, are built through collaboration. Inspired by the global soccer tournament coming to Houston this summer, HCDE’s Business Services and Procurement teams transformed iPASS into a celebration of connection and community engagement, creating a backdrop for small business owners, entrepreneurs and vendors seeking opportunities to grow their impact throughout Harris County.  

Industry experts led informative sessions on navigating procurement opportunities funded through local and federal dollars, while business owners gained insight into topics such as grant writing, public-private partnerships and strategies for sustainable growth. Director of Procurement Dr. Edna Johnson highlighted how vendors can leverage HCDE’s partnerships with local school districts and charter schools to streamline processes and expand their reach and success in the public sector.  

A new addition to this year’s showcase further strengthened those connections through a panel discussion featuring representatives from several HCDE divisions, including the Center for Safe and Secure Schools, Records Management and the Education Foundation of Harris County. Panelists provided an inside look at the programs and services their divisions offer while discussing opportunities for businesses to collaborate on projects that benefit the community.  

Additional speakers from the U.S. Small Business Administration, Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts, Stellar Bank and more shared tools and resources designed to help attendees thrive. By combining practical procurement guidance with meaningful networking opportunities, iPASS continued its mission of connecting vendors with the knowledge, relationships and resources to strengthen both their business and the communities they serve.