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Grand Rapids hosts reverse vendor fair to link small businesses with major contracts

City of Grand Rapids

At Grand Rapids DeVos Place, local small businesses are getting the inside track on major contracts from major companies before they go public

The Grand Rapids Office of Equity & Engagement is hosting Connect Local GR: A Buyer’s & Business Exchange. The concept is a reverse vendor fair where, instead of small businesses promoting themselves, buyers host tables, sharing what they buy, how vendors can qualify, and upcoming opportunities. It’s an opportunity for local businesses to build relationships before bids or proposal requests are released.

Participants include Corewell Health, Steelcase, Gentex, Grand Rapids Community College, Meijer, and Gerald R. Ford International Airport. City and county departments will also be on hand.

The free event features what it’s calling Resource Alley, where small businesses can learn about certification, gain technical assistance, and access to capital.

The Connect Local GR Buyers & Business Exchange takes place at DeVos Place on Thursday, April 2, from 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

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Dave joined WGVU Public Media in November of 2023 after eighteen years as a Michigan Association of Broadcasters Emmy-nominated photojournalist and editor at Grand Rapids' WOOD TV8 and three years at WEYI TV25 in Flint, Michigan. As a General Assignment Reporter, Dave covers daily news and community events all over West Michigan.
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