Over 400 small business owners and employees attended Connect Local GR: A Buyer’s & Business Exchange. This is Grand Rapids’ first-ever reverse vendor fair where, instead of small businesses promoting themselves, over 50 city departments, public agencies, institutions, private-sector companies, and buyers host tables, sharing contracting bid opportunities.
Amaad Hardy is a business developer for the city.
“You have the city saying, ‘This is what each of our departments is going to purchase over your next fiscal year.’ If you’re a small business, you can learn about what we actually buy.”
Attendees like Derraleigh Jackson, who works in job placement, say the event helps her make connections with local companies like Corewell Health, Meijer, and PNC Bank.
“It’s huge for us. It’s a foot in the door to help expand openings for the people that we’re working with to help get them permanent careers.”
James Lacy, who also works in job placement, echoes Jackson’s sentiments, saying it’s all about making those local connections.
“You just place people at the place that we feel can be helpful for them and focus on that quality versus quantity, an aspect that we love to preach.”
Organizers say they plan on making Connect Local GR an annual event.
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