FREE WORKSHOP ALERT

In the competitive world of business, securing every possible advantage is critical for growth and success. For small businesses in Virginia, the Small, Women-owned, and Minority-owned Business (SWaM) Certification provides a unique opportunity to stand out, access lucrative State and city government contracts, and build strong networks in the public and private sectors.

Small business owners who are looking to participate in Virginia’s specialized procurement and contracting opportunities are encouraged to become SWaM certified. The SWaM certification is a vehicle to promote economic growth of Virginia’s businesses. Becoming SWaM certified is just the first step in doing business with the Commonwealth. Each year the state buys goods and services totaling more than $8 billion. The Commonwealth of Virginia wants to do business with you and increase participation of small, women owned, and minority-owned businesses.

This workshop will cover the SWaM Program and certification/designation types, on-line application process, required documents needed to apply, and how to use the certification to do business with the Commonwealth (intro to eVA, Virginia’s Online Procurement Portal).  Bring your laptop and do it receiving one on one assistance. 

What is SWaM Certification?
SWaM certification is a designation provided by the Commonwealth of Virginia, designed to promote economic opportunities for small businesses, women-owned businesses, and minority-owned businesses. This program connects these businesses to a wide array of state-funded procurement opportunities.

Why is SWaM Certification Important?

1. Access to State Contracts
   Virginia spends billions annually on goods and services. A portion of this spending is allocated specifically for SWaM-certified businesses. Certification opens the door to these opportunities, giving your business a competitive edge.

2. Enhanced Visibility  
   Being listed in the SWaM database makes it easier for government agencies and larger companies to find and partner with your business. Many organizations actively seek SWaM-certified vendors to meet their diversity and inclusion goals.

3. Networking Opportunities
   SWaM certification allows you to attend specialized networking events, workshops, and expos. These platforms are designed to connect you with key decision-makers and industry leaders, offering a direct route to new partnerships.

4. Strengthened Credibility
   The SWaM designation is more than just a certification; it’s a statement of trustworthiness and capability. It signals to potential clients and partners that your business meets rigorous state standards, enhancing your reputation in the market.

5. Support for Growth
   Certified businesses gain access to training programs, mentoring, and resources aimed at helping them scale and compete effectively in larger markets.

Who Should Get SWaM Certified?
Any small business in Virginia that qualifies as small, women-owned, or minority-owned should consider applying for SWaM certification. Whether you are a startup or an established enterprise, this certification can amplify your growth potential.  For Virginia small businesses, SWaM certification is more than a credential; it’s a gateway to new opportunities. By leveraging the program, you can unlock contracts, enhance your visibility, and establish a foothold in a highly competitive marketplace. Don't miss the chance to grow your business—start your SWaM certification journey today and position your business for long-term success. Presented by Chris Ley, Business Services Manager, Northern Virginia Region. 




 

Unlock Opportunities for Success: Free Webinar on the Benefits of Membership with the Northern Virginia Hispanic Chamber of Commerce

Join us for an engaging and informative webinar where you'll discover the unique advantages of becoming a member of the Northern Virginia Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (NOVAHCC). Whether you're an entrepreneur, business professional, or community leader, this session is designed to show you how membership can be your gateway to growth and success.

Event Details:

• Date: June 18, 2025
• Time: 6:00 pm to 7:00 pm
• Location: Online 
• Cost: Free

What You'll Learn:

• Exclusive Networking Opportunities: Connect with influential business leaders, community partners, and entrepreneurs in Northern Virginia and beyond.
• Educational Programs: Gain access to professional development workshops, leadership training, and resources tailored to support Hispanic professionals.
• Business Growth: Learn about our Revenue Accelerator programs and how we can help you drive sales, find new clients, and expand your market reach.
• Advocacy and Representation: Understand how the Chamber supports Hispanic businesses through advocacy and partnerships with local, state, and national organizations.
• Member-Only Perks: Explore discounts, promotional opportunities, and other exclusive benefits reserved for NOVAHCC members.

Who Should Attend?

• Small business owners looking to grow and thrive.
• Professionals seeking career advancement and networking.
• Organizations aiming to engage with the international community in our region. 

Why Attend?
Existing members or prospective members who want to learn more information about how affiliation with us can empower your company to achieve professional and personal goals. Our membership is more than just an opportunity, it's a community committed to fostering success and driving meaningful impact.

Reserve Your Spot Today!
Spaces are limited, so don’t miss out. REGISTER FREE TODAY.  YOU WILL RECEIVE THE ZOOM LINK UPON REGISTRATION.

Take the first step toward joining a vibrant network dedicated to empowering Hispanic professionals and businesses. We look forward to welcoming you!

Career Reignite Workshop: “Job Search, Meet AI” Use It to Work Smarter— Not Harder

Feeling overwhelmed by job boards, ignored by recruiters, and exhausted by the process?
You’re not alone—and you’re not doing anything wrong.

Today’s job market is chaotic. Entire industries are shifting. Government jobs aren’t as secure as they once were. And now AI is showing up in every corner of the job search—from resume writing to networking tools—leaving job seekers confused about what to use and how to use it.

If you’ve ever wondered:
“Should I be using AI in my job search?”
“Am I cheating if I let it write my resume?”
“Why does everyone sound the same online?”
—this workshop is for you.

What You’ll Learn

This session will show you how to use AI strategically—not to replace your voice, but to save time, stay organized, and stay sharp.

You’ll learn:

• Where AI tools can help—and where they can hurt your chances

• Which tools to use (ChatGPT, Jobscan, Teal, Crystal Knows, and others)

• How to apply AI at each stage of your job search—from planning and researching to applying and interviewing

• How to avoid sounding generic or robotic—and stand out by sounding like you

What You’ll Walk Away With

• A smarter, easier way to manage your job search

• A clear understanding of how to use AI tools without relying on them

• More confidence in your resume, cover letter, and outreach

• A plan for moving forward with clarity and focus

Who This Is For

This workshop is designed for professionals navigating career changes, re-entering the workforce, or shifting industries—especially those feeling stuck, burned out, or unsure of how to stand out in a sea of online applications.

If you want to take back control of your job search without losing your voice—or your mind—this session will get you back on track.

Why It Matters

This isn’t another generic AI webinar. It’s a practical, real-world guide for job seekers who want results—and still want to sound like themselves.

Join us. Let’s simplify the process, sharpen your strategy, and help you land where you’re meant to be.

Get Clear Before You Click Apply A Clarity-Driven Workshop for Job Seekers Who Are Ready to Stop Spinning Their Wheels

Let’s be honest: most job seekers jump straight into the deep end—scanning job boards, tweaking resumes, and applying to anything remotely relevant. The problem? That approach leads to burnout, not breakthroughs.

This workshop is designed to change that.

"Get Clear Before You Click Apply" is your opportunity to pause the chaos, take a breath, and finally get strategic about your next move. It’s not about chasing job postings—it’s about defining the role you want, so the job search becomes targeted, efficient, and even a little exciting.

What You’ll Learn:

• How organizations actually write job descriptions (and what that means for you)

• How to write your own job description based on your skills, values, and goals

• How to reverse-engineer job postings that align with your ideal role

• How to identify roles that are worth your time—and filter out the noise

What You’ll Walk Away With:

• A personal job description that reflects your true strengths and direction

• Clarity on the kind of work and environment you’re actually looking for

• A practical process to find roles that align with your goals—not just your last title

• The confidence to stop guessing and start applying with purpose

If you're tired of vague goals, aimless scrolling, and job search overwhelm, this is the class that gets you unstuck and sets you on the right path.

Because once you’re clear, the right opportunities are easier to find—and much easier to land.

Join us for a workshop that puts you back in the driver’s seat.