Barksdale Air Force Base is gearing up for its highly anticipated Small Business Vendor Fair on Tuesday, February 25, 2025. This event offers businesses a unique opportunity to connect directly with over 350 Government Purchase Card (GPC) cardholders, the 2d Contracting Squadron (2CONS), and other local purchasing agents.
Showcasing Opportunities for Small Businesses In 2023, GPC cardholders at Barksdale made over 20,000 purchases, spending $61.3 million, with $54.8 million awarded to small businesses—a staggering 89.44% of total spending. The Vendor Fair provides an unparalleled platform for businesses to showcase their offerings and build relationships with key buyers.
What to Expect
The Vendor Fair is open to businesses offering mission-critical products and services, such as automotive parts, safety equipment, promotional items, repair services, and more. New for 2025, several awardees of Barksdale’s $360 million, 9-year base construction contract will be present, seeking subcontractors for demolition, landscaping, electrical work, paving, and other construction services.
Event Details:
- Date: Tuesday, February 25, 2025
- Location: Barksdale Air Force Base
- Booth Registration Deadline: Thursday, February 6, 2025
Registration Details:
- Small Business Booth: $175 (includes one lunch)
- Other than Small Business Booth: $350 (includes one lunch)
- Additional lunches can be purchased for $15 each.
Each booth includes:
- 8’ x 8’ space with a table, cloth, skirt, and two chairs
- A pre-printed business name sign
- A box lunch courtesy of Firehouse Subs
Why Attend?
The event is a showcase opportunity for businesses to gain direct exposure to Barksdale buyers, who average $10,000 per transaction for products, $2,500 for services, and $2,000 for construction. While sales are not permitted during the event, vendors can bring samples, visual aids, and line sheets to market their products and services effectively.
Prepare for Success
To ensure a smooth experience, participants can also attend the Barksdale AFB Vendor Boot Camp, a virtual seminar series designed to prepare vendors for the event. Seminars will be held in late January and early February.
How to Register
Registration is open now, and spaces are limited. Booth assignments will be made on a first-come, first-served basis once payment and security forms are received.
To secure your spot, visit the registration page here or contact Jennifer Whittington at [email protected] or 318-422-0177.
Don’t miss this opportunity to showcase your business and establish valuable connections at Barksdale AFB’s Small Business Vendor Fair.