This Federal Funding Opportunity (FFO or Announcement)announces the anticipated availability of funding for the MBDA Business Center (“Center”) program, and solicits competitive applications for operators of MBDA Business Centers in (5) five locations. MBDA Business Centers are established to provide technical assistance and business development services. The technical assistance and business development services areprovided through federal financial assistance awards to generate increased financing and contract opportunities for minority business enterprises (MBEs). In addition, the services provided willassist MBEs in creating and retaining jobs.

For-profit entities (including but not limited to sole-proprietorships, partnerships, limited liability companies and corporations), non-profit organizations, state and local government entities, Native American Tribes and educational institutions are eligible to apply to operate MBDA Business Centers. Successful applicants will possess experience in assisting minority firms in obtaining large scale contracts/procurements and financing awards; accessing established supply chains; educating and assisting minority firms in joint ventures, teaming arrangements, mergers and acquisitions; minority business advocacy; and, facilitating entry and large scale transactions in global markets. It is also anticipated that the mission of successful applicant organizations will align with both the mission of MBDA and the MBDA Business Center program objectives.

Ms. Joann J. Hill, Chief MBDA Office of Business Development U.S. Department of Commerce 1401 Constitution Ave., N.W., Room 5079 Washington, DC 20230 Tel: 202-482-1940 Nakita Chambers MBDA Program Manager U.S. Department of Commerce 1401 Constitution Ave., N.W., Room 5079 Washington, DC 20230 Tel: 202-482-0065