Barb Brennen, North Central’s Procurement Outreach Specialist, stepped outside the traditional government procurement realm by spending the day with the Johnsonburg Community Trust and the Brick Block. This engagement provided an opportunity to offer guidance on federal funding readiness. 

During the visit, Barb emphasized the importance of SAM (System for Award Management)registration, which is a critical prerequisite for any organization seeking to apply for federal grants or receive federal funding. Ensuring that SAM registration is active, accurate, and up to date is essential for eligibility and timely submission of applications. This outreach effort supports North Central’s broader mission to assist regional organizations in navigating federal procurement processes, strengthening their ability to pursue funding opportunities, and expanding their capacity to implement community-focused projects.