The Dearborn Area Chamber of Commerce will host its first Meet the Purchasers event to connect small and mid- sized businesses with larger organizations, Wednesday, October 17, 2012 at the Doubletree Hotel – Dearborn/Detroit, 5801Southfield Service Drive. This breakfast and educational forum is sponsored by Blue Cross Blue Shield – MI and Henry Ford Community College.
“Meet the Purchasers” will offer small business owners education on purchasing protocol and connection to key decision makers thus enabling them to navigate the often times difficult system of paperwork in the bid process.
“This event is the important link to the public and private entities looking to purchase products and business-to-business services,” said Chamber President Jennifer Giering. “We hope to introduce our small business network to the important individuals in procurement offices and purchasers themselves who will help them win new contracts to impact their bottom line.”
Most small businesses believe that large companies don’t buy products/services from their storefronts. The reality is that public and private entities buy many more goods and services than imagined. Purchasers include City of Dearborn, Connection Point, Contract Connect (Department of Technology, Management & Budget), DeCook Government Policies & Strategies (AMTRAK), Henry Ford Community College, Oakwood Healthcare System and Wayne County Airport Authority. PTAC will also be on hand to provide resources to successfully obtain government contracts.
After a continental breakfast, each purchaser will present procurement details. Then, small to mid-sized business representatives will participate in a “speed networking” exercise and meet with each purchaser. Individual tickets are available ($35 for members; $50 for non-members) with online registration at www.dearbornareachamber.org.
The Dearborn Area Chamber of Commerce provides 600+ members with the opportunities and resources to engage and network with other businesses, enhancing financial growth, professional development, and the ability to contribute to a thriving community environment.
