Bids & Banking Business Dinner for Companies Seeking Corporate Contracts

This complimentary event brings together small business owners and corporate and financial leaders for an afternoon of info & opportunities!
About this Event

Charlotte & Surrounding Area Small Business Owners!

If you’re looking to grow your business, pursue larger contracts, and better understand how to position your company for corporate opportunities, I want to personally invite you to join us for the upcoming Bids & Banking Business Dinner for Companies Seeking Corporate Contracts, Sponsored by , in partnership with Charlotte Mecklenburg Library, Diversified Maintenance, First Citizens Bank, and Proctor & Assocs.,TBS Inc. ()

This complimentary event brings together small business owners and corporate and financial leaders for an afternoon of practical information, connections, and conversation around what it really takes to grow a company that is ready to pursue bigger business opportunities.

BIDS & BANKING BUSINESS DINNER
Wednesday, September 9, 2026
4:00–6:30 PM ET

• Charlotte Mecklenburg Library – University City Regional
• 5528 Waters Edge Village Dr.
• Charlotte, NC 28262
• 1st Floor Training Room

During this event, you’ll hear directly from leaders representing ProcuraFind®, Diversified Maintenance, First Citizens Bank, and Proctor & Associates about topics that matter when you're preparing your business for growth—including how to pursue corporate contracts, strengthen your financial readiness, understand what larger companies look for in small-business partners, and position your company to compete for new opportunities. ()

Meet the Speakers

• Dr. Dawn Nicole McIlwain | CEO & Founder, ProcuraFind®
• Dr. Dawn Nicole will open the conversation by focusing on how small businesses can scale for corporate contracts—including what companies need to have in place to become more visible, prepared, and competitive when pursuing larger opportunities.
• Ciara Lilly | Director of Client Relations, Diversified Maintenance
• Ciara brings the corporate perspective into the room. She’ll share insights into how a major company works with small businesses, what makes a potential business partner stand out, and what companies should understand when preparing to pursue larger contracts.
• Rev Ford | Vice President, Business Banker, First Citizens Bank
• Growing a company takes more than sales—it requires the right financial foundation. Rev will discuss business banking and financial readiness, including how business owners can better position their companies for sustainable growth. First Citizens provides dedicated small-business banking expertise and solutions supporting companies as they grow.
• Tony Proctor, EA | Firm Principal, Proctor & Associates TBS, Inc.
• Tony will bring the conversation back to the financial side of winning and managing contracts—helping business owners understand the financial practices and preparation needed as they pursue bigger opportunities.

Together, these speakers bring four important perspectives into one room: corporate contracting, corporate buying, business banking, and financial readiness.

And this isn't just another presentation. Dinner is included, and you'll have an opportunity to connect with other business owners and professionals who can potentially become part of your network.

Admission is complimentary, but registration is required and seating is limited.

If growing your business through corporate contracts is one of your goals, this is a room you want to be in.

REGISTER TODAY