2024 Annual Reverse Vendor Tradeshow

It's a tradeshow where vendors come to meet public procurement professionals, instead of the other way around!

Do you want to better understand how to do business with the public sector?

The 5th Annual Reverse Vendor Tradeshow offers vendors a unique opportunity to connect with procurement professionals from Ontario-based public agencies, including municipalities, school boards, and other publicly funded organizations. 

The OPBA Reverse Tradeshow is an excellent way to maximize your marketing efforts. Each participating agency will host a booth, providing the perfect chance to showcase your products or services. It’s a rare opportunity to network face-to-face with a wide range of public procurement representatives in one place!

Check out the growing list of participating public agencies below.

Event Details

When:      9:30 am - 1:00 pm, Wednesday, October 23, 2024

Where:     Pearson Convention Centre  (Google Map)

Tickets:    $85.00 (plus HST) per person

To learn more, download the Reverse Vendor Tradeshow Flyer.

Registration

Vendors: Purchase your tickets by clicking on the link below. 

REGISTER NOW

Sponsorship Opportunities 

Vendors: To learn more, contact Wendy Gan at events@opba.ca.

Questions? Email us at events@opba.ca.

Please refer to our refund + payment policy for information regarding cancelations and/or refunds.

9:45 AM – 10:15 AM      How to Do Business with the Government

Join this session to learn how to do business with the government at the federal, provincial, and municipal levels. Gain a better understanding of key components of the tendering process, policies, and helpful tips for navigating government contracts.

10:25 AM – 10:55 AM     How to Do Business with Group Procurement Organizations

In this panel discussion, you’ll learn why and how to collaborate with Group Procurement Organizations (GPOs), which negotiate collective purchasing contracts to secure cost savings for their members. Hear from industry experts on the latest trends and insights into the benefits of working with GPOs, becoming a preferred vendor, and expanding into new markets.

Panelists: OECM and Canoe Procurement

11:05 AM – 11:35 AM     Mastering the Public Procurement Maze: Your Digital Guide to Success

Struggling with the complexities of public procurement? Digital procurement tools are transforming the process, making it easier to find opportunities, bid efficiently, and win contracts. In this brief talk, we'll explore how a digital procurement platform can be your secret weapon for success. Learn how these tools: 

• Centralize Information: Access tenders, documents, and deadlines in one user-friendly place.
• Simplify Bidding: Streamline bid submissions and ensure full compliance.
• Enhance Visibility: Track tender status in real-time, helping you stay informed and make data-driven decisions.
• Improve Efficiency: Automate tasks like document management and communication to save time.
• Provide Expert Support: Get guidance to avoid pitfalls and increase success.

Unlock new opportunities and simplify your procurement approach!

11:45 AM – 12:15 PM     Public Procurement: Pathway to Sustainability and Prosperity

Public procurement goes beyond purchasing goods and services; it has the power to drive significant environmental and societal benefits. Many governments are now committed to using their purchasing power for sustainable change. To realize these economic, social, and environmental benefits, collaboration among government, stakeholders, and vendors is essential.

This presentation will explore how we can collectively harness procurement to achieve social and environmental sustainability.

It aims to:

• Illuminate the concept of sustainability and its significance
• Share insights into the evolving landscape of government commitments and priorities
• Discuss the potential and strategic impact of public procurement in fostering change
• Uncover procurement trends affecting the vendor community
• Explore how vendors can position their business models and offerings for future opportunities

 Presenter: Jodi Houston, City of Brampton

12:25 PM – 12:55 PM     Key things to know about the WSIB Health and Safety Excellence Program

Whether you're starting with safety initiatives or looking to enhance your current practices, the WSIB Health and Safety Excellence Program offers valuable resources and cash incentives to reduce risks, improve safety culture, lower expenses related to health and safety issues, and enhance business reputation and commitment.

For 2024, WSIB is doubling rebates and offering an additional $1,000 towards your health and safety action plan for smaller employers!

In this session, you will learn about:

• The benefits of investing in health and safety

• How the incentive program works

• How to join

• Rebate examples

• Next steps

Presenters:

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