Center for Industrial Research & Service (CIRAS) Virtual Matchmaking Event
Matchmaking for this event is only available to registered attendees.
Virtual Matchmaking Sessions
CIRAS is helping connect subcontractors with large prime companies and government agencies for virtual matchmaking sessions.
In order to be eligible to participate in virtual matchmaking sessions, please register for matchmaking via the red button on this page.
Once you have created a matchmaking profile, you will be notified of your matchmaking sessions no later than Monday, April 5.
Please note matchmaking sessions are not guaranteed – matches will be facilitated based upon company information you provide in your matchmaking profile and the needs of participating primes and government buyers.
All virtual matchmaking sessions will take place via Microsoft Teams in a web browser. The Microsoft Teams app is not required.
Already a govmates member? No problem – shoot us a note so we can use your existing profile for matchmaking at this event.
In addition to 1:1 matchmaking sessions, we are facilitating a networking session for companies to meet each other (much like you would at a conference) in hopes of facilitating teaming. The networking session will run from 9:30 – 11:30 CST. Feel free to drop in and introduce yourself and your company. We’ll have moderators on hand to remind participants of the times for 1:1 matchmaking and answer any
questions you may have.
Questions? Email us at matchmaker@govmates.com
Matchmaking & Networking Agenda
| Timing | Agenda |
|---|---|
|
9:00 – 9:15 AM |
Welcome and Introduction |
|
9:15 – 9:30 AM |
Matchmaking Overview |
|
9:30 AM – 12 PM CST |
Matchmaking Sessions15 minute increments via Microsoft Meetings |
|
9:30 – 11:30 AM CST |
NetworkingIn addition to 1:1 matchmaking sessions, we are facilitating a networking session for companies to meet each other (much like you would at a conference) in hopes of facilitating teaming. The networking session will run from 9:30 – 11:30 CST. Feel free to drop in and introduce yourself and your company. We’ll have moderators on hand to remind participants of the times for 1:1 matchmaking and answer any questions you may have. |
Virtual Meeting Etiquette
- Minimum bandwidth – for the best virtual meeting experience, we recommend having access to internet speed of at least 1.2 mbps.
- Eliminate all distractions – no driving, multi-tasking (yes, close your email and other browser windows) and other noises in the background.
- Use headphones – audio tends to be clearer when using ear phones plugged into your device.
- Lighting – more light is better. Having light nearby can help the other video participant to see you more clearly.
- Get dressed – do we really have to say this? Pants aren’t optional.
- No eating during the meeting – again, do we have to say this? We can all afford to live off our quarantine-15 weight to stave off hunger for our short virtual sessions.
- Be prepared – just because it’s virtual doesn’t mean you don’t have to prepare. Know your audience, prepare your elevator pitch, and take notes.
Meeting Preparation
- Research – Conduct research on the prime/agency prior to the meeting. Identify past, present and future contract opportunities to discuss and explain how you can add value.
- Update your Capability Statement – Bring a current capability statement and preferably customize it to show how you can help achieve the mission of the prime/agency.
- Differentiate Yourself – In conversation, differentiate yourself from your competitors. Lead with your skills/expertise rather than your socio-economic status.
- Ask Questions – Understand how you can help them solve their problems.
- Identify Next Steps – Establish next steps and a plan for following up after the meeting.
- Contact Your PTAC Counselor – Your CIRAS PTAC counselor can assist you with preparing for your scheduled meetings and conducting research.
Follow Us on LinkedIn
