GThe Lower Manhattan Development Corporation today announced a conference aimed at bringing together Lower Manhattan's small businesses and large and medium size corporations. The purpose is to identify and facilitate mutually beneficial procurement opportunities between the two communities. Information sessions will also be held on procurement, financing and technical assistance programs, and other areas of interest to the small business community.

Governor George E. Pataki said, "I'm encouraging all small businesses south of Houston Street that procure, or want to procure, with corporations to attend this very important event. The conference will serve as a catalyst for business to business activity within Lower Manhattan, making it easier for companies to access information about services offered by our very diverse small business community."

Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg said, "The rebuilding of Lower Manhattan presents an opportunity for New York City to show its strengths, and among them is our network of small businesses. This Administration through the Department of Small Business Services is committed to ensuring Lower Manhattan's small business community shapes the future of the downtown area and I am confident that the Business to Business Exchange will enhance opportunities and support the growth of Lower Manhattan."

In cooperation with the Downtown Alliance, Manhattan Chamber of Commerce, the New York City Department of Small Business Services, and the City and State of New York. The Opportunity Downtown conference will be held March 16, 2004, at Pace University in Lower Manhattan from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

John C. Whitehead, LMDC Chairman said, "This event is two-fold. Small businesses will gain invaluable insight into contracting and procuring business with a broad range of corporations downtown. The corporations in turn will find new opportunities to cut costs by doing business with their neighbors, while having the opportunity to play an important role in the rebuilding and revitalization of Lower Manhattan."

Kevin M. Rampe, President of the Lower Manhattan Development Corporation said, "LMDC and its partners continue their commitment to revitalize Lower Manhattan. Small businesses are an essential element to Lower Manhattan's future. We must not forget that many of these businesses hurt by the events of September 11th are still suffering due to the decrease in foot traffic and the absence of many of the businesses that were once located within the World Trade Center. By bringing everyone together, all of us come out on top."

Henry M. Paulson, Jr., Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Goldman Sachs said, "For the past 134 years, Goldman Sachs has had its headquarters in Lower Manhattan. We commend the Governor, the Mayor, and the LMDC for this important initiative in the continued rebuilding of downtown."

John V. Murphy, President, Chairman and CEO of OppenheimerFunds, Inc. said, "As a new tenant of the World Financial Center, OppenheimerFunds is committed to investing in Lower Manhattan. By participating in the Lower Manhattan Development Corporation's Business to Business Exchange, we are joining the city's effort to revitalize this community, which is comprised of many diverse small businesses. This event provides a unique opportunity for us to network and make new business contacts."

Corporations participating in "Opportunity Downtown: Business to Business Exchange" include Merrill Lynch, Goldman Sachs, Oppenheimer Funds, Deloitte & Touche LLP, Silverstein Properties, Independence Community Bank, Cadwalader, Wickersham & Taft, Deutsche Bank, NYU Downtown Hospital, Fried, Frank, Lewis, Shriver & Jacobson, Wall Street Planning Associates, McRoberts Protective Agency and Verizon.

The day-long Opportunity Downtown conference is free. Small businesses south of Houston Street are strongly encouraged to register with the LMDC, but space is limited. RSVP's can be made by mailing or faxing the registration form found at www.RenewNYC.org/ConsultantRFPRFQ/rebuildinglinks.asp.htm