FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Rivanna Natural Designs Certified as a SWaM Vendor by Virginia DMBE
Charlottesville, VA (March 5, 2008) - Rivanna Natural Designs, Inc. announced today that the company’s application for Small, Woman-owned and/or Minority-owned (“SWaM”) certification has been approved by the Virginia Department of Minority Business Enterprise (DMBE). The certification is valid for three years.
“SWaM certification enhances opportunities for small, women- and minority-owned businesses in Virginia,” said Rivanna president, Crystal Mario. “Rivanna is pleased to participate in the program and to continue to offer state agencies and departments environmentally responsible, made-in-Virginia products. Our SWaM certification will assist in moving the Commonwealth closer to Governor Kaine’s goal of 40% of purchases from SWaMs.”
On August 10, 2006, Governor Timothy Kaine signed Executive Order No. 33 (2006) focusing on enhancing business opportunities for small, women- and minority-owned (“SWaM”) businesses. Governor Kaine set forth a 40% goal of purchases from SWaMs for the Commonwealth and established a Small Business Set-Aside Program, as well as several other initiatives for state agencies and departments to enhance SWaM participation in procurement activities.
Rivanna Natural Designs, Inc. can be found in the SWaM Vendor Directory at www.dmbe.virginia.gov or in the state’s online procurement system, eVA, at http://www.eVA.Virginia.Gov/vendors/index.htm. Procurement officials of state agencies, public entities, and private corporations can contact Gretchen Wirth, VP of Sales, for assistance or visit the company’s website at www.rivannadesigns.com.
ABOUT RIVANNA NATURAL DESIGNS
Rivanna Natural Designs, Inc. creates and distributes awards, plaques, and corporate gifts made from organic or recycled materials and certified, sustainably harvested woods. A WBENC-certified Women’s Business Enterprise, the company is a leading U.S. provider of environmentally responsible gifts and awards, with clients in 40 states. The company’s headquarters is in Charlottesville, VA. Information regarding Rivanna Natural Designs can be found at www.rivannadesigns.com.
CONTACT:
Gretchen Wirth
408-371-5543
