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Doing business with the Transit Center: Industry Day Spring 2011

  • Published
  • By Master Sgt. Daniel Nathaniel
  • 376th AEW Public Affairs
BISHKEK, Kyrgyzstan --  In Fiscal Year 2010, the Transit Center at Manas contributed over 42 million dollars to Kyrgyzstan's economy through purchases of services, commodities and construction from local companies. In Fiscal Year 2011, the Transit Center is on pace to match or exceed that amount.

To find out how they can do business with the Transit Center, 244 interested vendors attended Industry Day at the Hyatt Regency Bishkek April 22. The 376th Expeditionary Contracting Squadron holds Industry Day twice a year to inform prospective businesses on the procedures required to qualify as a vendor with the Center.

"We have several initiatives in place that help identify, cultivate, and integrate Kyrgyz companies as part of the supply chains for the U.S. Government," said Col. Dwight Sones, director of the Transit Center at Manas. "Additionally, we are looking for architectural and engineering capabilities, construction capabilities and increasing our supplier base varying from lumber to vehicles and everything in-between."

The morning session concentrated on subjects ranging from business ethics and humanitarian assistance to how to become a concessionaire with the Army Air Force Exchange Service. The afternoon session highlighted subjects such as business opportunities with the United States federal government and how to prepare a winning contract proposal.

All interested businesses must pass through a rigorous screening prospect. The most important items that Contracting looks for in a vendor are a reasonable price, quality products and timely delivery.

"This semi-annual event is a great opportunity for the Transit Center contracting experts to meet and talk with local business people," said Capt. John Schoonmaker, 376th ECONS, chief of contracting. "We hope this event increases our vendor base and is a great relation building tool. Every dollar we infuse into our Kyrgyz partners' economy helps the Transit Center, the local merchants/workers, and strengthens relationships between the U.S. and Kyrgyzstan."

Those interested in doing business with the Transit Center should visit www.fbo.gov to find out the requirements. For more information on the economic impact of the Transit Center go to www.transitcentermanas.com.