Business Connector Application

I work for an economic development agency in mid Michigan.  We are trying to develop a "business to business" connector mainly for industrial firms.  We would like companies to be able to easily create a profile with information about their business (Name, location, industry, capabilities, equipment, etc.)  Additionally, companies would be able to post "bid opportunities" for projects or inputs they currently source or plan to source... so other companies who are subscribed to this "group" can get automatic e-mails every time one of these opportunities matches their interests.

I am trying to do this with limited programming experience.  I've installed elgg and begun a site, but am having difficulty being able to fine tune the criteria I'd like to include.  Also need the registration process and the posting / reading process to be super easy, as many of these guys do not have patience for complex websites.  If anyone has any suggestions for me or general guidance, I'd appreciate it.