Feature Article

Open for Business

With a local economic impact exceeding $200 million annually, Defense Supply Center Richmond seeks small business partnerships.

By Tonya Johnson, DSCR Public Affairs

RDML Mark Heinrich, Defense Supply Center Richmond’s commander, was the guest speaker at the Chesterfield Chamber of Commerce’s monthly luncheon April 12. More than 100 local business people attended the event, which was held at the Cultural Center of India in Chesterfield.

Heinrich spoke about DSCR’s mission and how local businesses, especially small businesses, can partner with the center. “Each year, we spend about $1 billion in small business,” said Heinrich. “That number includes contracts to a variety of small business owners, including small disadvantaged, women-owned, and service-disabled, veteran-owned businesses.”

During the presentation, Heinrich also emphasized that DSCR was also looking for more HubZone business. “If you’re a business located in a HubZone area and 35 percent of your employees live in the area, then you could qualify for certification as a HubZone small business provider,” he said. “Once certified, you could be eligible for HubZone set aside contracts. HubZone designations are based on census figures. Part of my goal here today is to drum up business and encourage you to partner with us. We need more HubZone business.”

The commander also outlined the impact DSCR has on local and state economies.

“DSCR is a major economic driver in the county,” said Lenita Gilreath, executive director, Chesterfield County Chamber of Commerce. “It’s important for our membership to recognize the impact and contributions DSCR makes to our community on an economic basis and the contribution it makes to our national security.”

The Crater Planning District Commission economic impact study done in FY04 examined DSCR’s impact on Chesterfield, Dinwiddie, and Prince George counties, as well as Colonial Heights, Hopewell, and Petersburg. According to the study, DSCR contributed almost $211 million dollars to the local area. State and local governments collected approximately $22 million in tax revenue from DSCR and companies that do business with the Center.

In addition to speaking about business opportunities, Heinrich talked about DSCR’s role in supporting the local community. The Defense Logistics Agency’s Law Enforcement Support Office provides supplies and equipment to law enforcement agencies around the country. This program allows DLA to redistribute excess equipment and provide useful tools to police departments.

Tonya Johnson is Public Affairs Specialist with Defense Supply Center Richmond.

-- Sept. 28, 2006