Since the introduction of the new Public Procurement Act in 2018, the Provincial Government has focused on ways to promote learning and networking opportunities to help support suppliers in the province. Next week, a number of public sector organizations will participate in a reverse trade show to help share information about the public procurement process in Newfoundland and Labrador.

In a reverse trade show, public bodies set up booths and suppliers are invited to meet with officials to learn about their procurement processes, as well as any upcoming opportunities. The forum also allows suppliers to connect with representatives from the public sector organizations to share information about their products and services.

The Public Procurement Agency, in conjunction with the Department of Industry, Energy and Technology and the St. John’s Board of Trade, will host the reverse trade show on Thursday, June 1 at the Sandman Hotel, 227 Kenmount Road, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. in the Bonavista Room.

Interested suppliers can contact the Board of Trade at 709-726-2961 or www.stjohnsbot.ca/events/ to register for this free event.

Quotes
“Creating awareness of procurement processes in the province, while also creating awareness of procurement opportunities, is very important for both suppliers and public body organizations. A reverse trade show is an interesting concept that allows for the information to flow both ways, and is a win for everyone involved.”
Honourable Elvis Loveless
Minister Responsible for the Public Procurement Agency

“A reverse trade show creates a uniquely interesting one-stop event for the supplier community to connect with the public sector buyer, identify ways to efficiently bridge supply chain gaps, and raise awareness of current and future opportunities for business partnerships. We are pleased to be the first province to host an in-person, post-pandemic showcase of this event in Atlantic Canada.”
Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC
Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology

“We have such a diverse business community that has so much to offer through quality goods and services. It’s important for the public sector to understand the depth and breadth of services that can be procured locally, and this space allows both sides to come together and learn about the opportunities that exist. We look forward to facilitating valuable business opportunities and fostering new connections among our incredible industry professionals!”
AnnMarie Boudreau
CEO, St. John’s Board of Trade

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