The University of the Virgin Islands proudly congratulates Frank Dixon, State Director of the Virgin Islands APEX Accelerator, on his appointment as President of the National APEX Accelerator Alliance (NAPEX). This prestigious national leadership role reflects Dixon’s expertise and commitment to supporting businesses in navigating government contracting opportunities.
NAPEX is the national voice for more than 94 APEX Accelerator centers across the U.S. and territories, representing a network of over 650 professionals in more than 300 offices. As president, Dixon will drive strategic efforts to strengthen collaboration with federal agencies, industry leaders, and policymakers. Under his leadership, NAPEX will continue empowering its members to help more than 50,000 businesses each year win over $28 billion in government contracts, subcontracts and certifications.
In 2022, Dixon led the launch of the Virgin Islands APEX Accelerator program, hosted by UVI, with offices on St. Thomas, St. Croix, and St. John. Since its inception, the program has become a vital resource for local businesses pursuing federal, state, and local contracting opportunities. To date, the center has supported more than 250 business clients, helping them secure over $55 million in contracts. Many clients have also obtained key certifications, including HUBZone, 8(a), veteran-owned, and women-owned designations. The services are offered free of charge, funded in part by a cooperative agreement with the U.S. Department of Defense through its Office of Small Business Programs.
“Mr. Dixon’s leadership has been instrumental in establishing and growing the Virgin Islands APEX Accelerator program, empowering local companies to compete for government contracts and driving economic development across the Virgin Islands,” said Dr. Kendra Harris, Interim Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs. “His appointment is a testament not only to his commitment to excellence but also to the caliber of talent available here at UVI to support our local businesses.”
In discussing his vision for the Alliance, Dixon shared: “My priorities include advancing the professional standards of our association, streamlining internal operations, fostering strategic partnerships and promoting our value. This leadership role affords me the opportunity to advocate for more comprehensive support systems to strengthen the national government industrial base and to ensure that U.S. territories, including the Virgin Islands, maintain a meaningful presence in federal policy discussions and decision-making processes.”
A decorated U.S. Army veteran, Dixon is a native of Duplin County, North Carolina, and a proud member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. He and his team of counselors invite local businesses to connect with the Virgin Islands APEX Accelerator and take advantage of the free support and resources available at: VI APEX – Government Contracting Starts Here.
For more information about NAPEX and its mission, visit Home – National Apex Accelerator Alliance.
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