The State of Florida Back to School Tax Holiday and new permanent Disaster Preparedness tax -free sales begin Friday, Aug. 1. The School tax holiday lasts until Aug. 31, and the Disaster Preparedness exemption will become permanent on select items. We have combined both lists of tax-free items on the link below.
Created by Mayor Keith A. James, the Office of Small, Minority/Women Business Programs (SMWBP) is here to assist local businesses succeed.
Annually, millions of dollars in government contracts are awarded to provide the City of West Beach with Construction Services, Professional Services and goods and services. Historically, many small, minority and women-owned businesses have missed out on these projects because they lack the skills or knowledge to compete for City projects, and other government and industry projects.
The Office of Small, Minority/Women Business Programs is here to help your business get certified and learn the skills required to compete for government and industry contracts.
Our 2025 Small Business Fair was a resounding success. Held in the Mandel Public Library on Wednesday, May 7, 2025, about 50 small business owners met with 17 area businesses and government agencies to discuss collaboration opportunities. The face-to-face meetings were to open doors and assist small businesses in qualifying and understand how to secure jobs with these companies and government agencies. Held annually during National Small Business Week, the event is designed specifically to help small businesses navigate the complexities of bidding and securing contracts for goods and services.
Registering for opportunity at the Small Business Resource Fair
Talking opportunity with the TED Center and Valley Bank
Learning about potential opportunities with the Solid Waste Authority
Discussing how local business works with the CRA
Black Chamber of Commerce's Tracy Thomas talks business with potential members
Construction is booming in the area and West Construction discusses supplier opportunities
Learning how Innovative Bonds can assist a business
Large turnout at the 2025 Small Business Resource Fair
Stepping in front of a crowd, or presenting to a committee evaluating components of a contract can be intimidating. Our four-part series with master communicator Corey Saban, the Power of Public Speaking, is designed to prepare businesses to make the best presentation.
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The Office of Small, Minority/Women Business Programs works to open doors and remove barriers to assist companies not only survive but thrive. Among the ways we open doors is through events such as the Small Business Resource Fair where you get to meet one-on-one with people who can help your business.
Discussing opportunities Downtown West Palm Beach
Juan Pagan, Florida Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, discussing business opportunities with ladies
The TED Center non-profit offering support for entrepreneurs and small businesses
Small Businesses were encouraged to meet with various companies and agencies
Investment opportunities are available for small businesses
Mayor Keith A. James, left, and Small, Minority Women/Owned Business Director Frank Hayden, right, with a family at the STEM in the City Forum
Sandra Hammerstein, left, Small, Minority Women/Owned Business Compliance Officer, with Mayor Keith A. James, and Alejandro Quintero, Small, Minority Women/Owned Business compliance specialist at the Greenacres Hispanic Fiesta.