Michigan Business Beat | Laketa Henderson, SBA, Detroit Supplier Matchmaking & Patriot Pitch

Jeffrey Mosher welcomes back Laketa Henderson, Michigan District Director, SBA, U.S. Small Business Administration, Detroit, MI. The SBA’s second Supplier Matchmaking Expo of the year is fast approaching – this Friday in Detroit, in fact. Remind us why the SBA is doing this and why matchmaking events are so important to the health of the American small business dream? The event emphasizes strengthening U.S. supply chains and “Made in America” partnerships. What opportunities does that create specifically for Michigan manufacturers and suppliers? Speaking of “Made in America,” our nation is celebrating Freedom 250 this year. Is the SBA doing anything special? A Patriot Pitch Competition? What is it, what can businesses win, and how can they apply? There are several stages of judging, but competitors have to get by the first round. What are judges looking for from the first-round contestants that will move them on to the “Road to 68”? The criteria judging panels are looking at are: A) Strengthening American competitiveness B) Small Business “punching above its weight.” C) Economic impact and quality jobs D) Business fundamentals and execution readiness Why these four things in particular? The prize pool is $1 Million. How is that broken down between the final five winners?