The DFW Business Council continues to play a vital role in supporting economic growth and expanding opportunities for small businesses across North Texas. Through initiatives like the ACCESS Business Expo, the organization is helping entrepreneurs connect directly with corporate procurement leaders, government agencies and major supply chains. By creating pathways for small and minority-owned businesses to secure valuable contracts and build lasting partnerships, the DFW Business Council is driving stronger economic inclusion and long-term business success throughout the region.
In an era where access can be just as valuable as capital, the DFW Business Council is working to close the gap between small businesses and big opportunities.
At the heart of that mission is its signature event, the ACCESS Business Expo, a multi-day experience designed to do more than gather entrepreneurs in a room. It’s about creating real pathways into corporate supply chains — spaces where many small and minority-owned businesses have historically struggled to gain a foothold.
“This is our annual business expo that we do,” said Andrew Nash, chief operating officer of the DFW Business Council. “We host it every year in May to bring business owners together with corporations.”
But for Nash and the organization, simply being in the room isn’t enough.
Beyond Networking: Creating Access That Matters
The ACCESS Business Expo is structured with intention, from procurement roundtables to networking receptions, all designed to move businesses from introductions to opportunity.
“Our certified suppliers, this gives them the opportunity to meet directly with corporations,” Nash said. “We’re really focused on putting them in front of procurement leaders so they can build relationships and understand how to do business with Fortune 500 companies, state agencies and local governments.”
That distinction is critical. While many events offer exposure, ACCESS is built around outcomes.
The goal: Helping businesses secure contracts, not just conversations.
“Again, it’s about bringing suppliers and corporations together so they can build relationships,” Nash said. “That’s where the opportunity starts.”
Unlocking the Supply Chain
For many small business owners, the challenge isn’t capability – it’s access. Large corporations and government agencies often rely on established vendor networks, making it difficult for new or underrepresented businesses to break in.
The DFW Business Council is working to change that.
“Just getting into the supply chain – that’s the key,” Nash said. “Everything from transportation services to personal services depends on what companies need to build their products. We’re just trying to make sure small businesses get connected with those large businesses.”
By facilitating direct introductions and providing insight into procurement processes, the organization helps demystify what can often feel like a closed system.
And once businesses understand how to navigate that system, the opportunities can be transformative.
Adapting in a Changing Climate
The work of supplier diversity organizations has taken on new complexity in today’s political and corporate environment, where conversations around diversity, equity and inclusion continue to evolve.
Nash acknowledges the shift, but not the mission.
“Because of the environment now, ‘minority’ is almost like a bad word,” he said. “But the mission hasn’t changed. We’re still here to connect businesses and create opportunities.”
That adaptability has led the organization to sharpen its focus on economic impact, emphasizing growth, access and sustainability for businesses of all sizes.
More Than an Event
While the ACCESS Business Expo is a cornerstone, the DFW Business Council’s work extends far beyond a single event. Through certification, programming and ongoing engagement, the organization continues to build a pipeline of businesses ready to compete at higher levels.
The upcoming 2026 “Doing Business Texas Style” Spot Bid Fair, scheduled for May 11–12, will further expand those opportunities, bringing together agencies, institutions and entrepreneurs for direct contracting possibilities.
Together, these efforts reflect a broader vision: One where small businesses are not just included, but positioned to thrive.
