HIP: Doing Business with DC Government

HIP: Doing Business with DC Government - Building Bridges for Small Business Growth

February 2026

KJA was proud to attend Doing Business with DC Agencies on behalf of our client, HIP, to strengthen connections and uncover new opportunities within the District’s procurement landscape.

Hosted at One Judiciary Square, the event brought together key decision-makers and agency leaders, including Rosemary Suggs Evans, Director of the Department of Small & Local Business Development (DSLBD), and Nancy Hapeman, Chief Procurement Officer. Participating agencies such as DSLBD, the Office of Contracting and Procurement (OCP), the Department of General Services (DGS), and the Department of Transportation (DDOT) shared valuable insights on how small businesses can better align with the District’s contracting priorities.

What made the event truly inspiring were the messages of empowerment and collaboration woven throughout the discussion:

“Her power isn't in competing—it's in collaborating, creating, and closing the deal”

and

“She doesn’t wait for a seat at the table—she builds the table, owns the room, and invites others in.”

Both perfectly capture the spirit of KJA’s approach to business development and partnership.

By engaging directly with agency leaders and peers, KJA continues to champion our clients’ growth and foster relationships that open doors to meaningful opportunities throughout the DC region.