Small Business Connections Conference Connecting Austin Entrepreneurs to Opportunities

AUSTIN, Texas — The City of Austin will host the 2026 Small Business Connections Conference on Wednesday, August 19, from 8:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at the Palmer Events Center.

This annual Small Business Conference brings together small business owners, entrepreneurs and community members for a day of learning, networking and resource-sharing. This year’s theme, “Small Business Strong,” celebrates the resilience, creativity and economic impact of small businesses while highlighting Austin’s commitment to supporting a diverse and flourishing local economy. Attendees will have the opportunity to connect with industry experts, City of Austin departments and community partners, gaining valuable insights and resources to help start, grow and strengthen their businesses.

“‘Small Business Strong’ reflects the resilience, innovation and entrepreneurial spirit that drive Austin’s economy,” said Edward Campos, Director of Austin Small and Minority Business Resources. “Through this conference and our partnerships across the City, we are helping small businesses build connections, access valuable resources and position themselves for long-term success. When small businesses succeed, our entire community benefits.”

Attendees will hear about how much Austin procured from small businesses in 2025 and gain insights into upcoming opportunities.

“Strong local businesses help build a strong Austin,” said James Scarboro, Chief Procurement Officer of Austin Financial Services. “Through this conference, we are helping the community understand our procurement process and connect with the resources to support long-term success.”

The conference also offers:

• City Connections exhibit featuring state, county and municipal organizations, providing information on upcoming opportunities and answering procurement questions.
   
• Networking to engage with officials, procurement officers and local resource providers to build relationships and explore contracting avenues.
   
• Informative sessions covering topics such as vendor registration, small business certification, navigating the government procurement processes, exploring what Austin buys, and more!

The event is open to the public. Interested parties can register by visiting the registration page at 4th Annual Small Business Connections Conference.

Organizations interested in exhibiting at the conference should contact Catherine Sak at SMBR@austintexas.gov.

For updates on the 2026 Small Business Connections Conference, visit the Austin Small and Minority Business Resources website.