2024 University of Minnesota Supplier Diversity Expo: Building Relationships, Building Community
Date: Tuesday, Oct. 8, 2024
Time: 9AM-3PM
Location: St. Paul RiverCentre, 175 Kellogg Boulevard, Saint Paul, Minnesota 55102
A diverse supplier network enhances the strength of the University, local businesses, and our communities. Annually, the Office for Supplier Diversity (OSD) proudly organizes the U of M Supplier Diversity Expo, fostering partnerships between Targeted Businesses (BIPOC-, disabled-, or woman-owned businesses), majority-owned firms, community partners, and the University.
Our focus this year is on cultivating relationships and fostering community. Whether you're representing a business, a community partner organization, or the U, your participation as an attendee or exhibitor contributes to a stronger Minnesota.
Don't miss the largest supplier diversity event in Minnesota! Learn more below, or register here.
For Suppliers
Whether you're a majority-owned firm or a Targeted Business (owned by BIPOC, women, or disabled individuals), the U of M Supplier Diversity Expo offers tailored options to foster B2B connections with other companies and with University departments. You will also have the opportunity to discover resources and opportunities offered by local nonprofits and government agencies.
- Exhibitor / Sponsorship Opportunities: Ensure the highest visibility for your company by signing up for a booth. View options and register here.
- New this year: An exclusive section designated for event-related Targeted Businesses! Get your business in front of key University event staff and major local businesses. These tables are available at a special reduced rate and reserved for Targeted Businesses only (owned by BIPOC, women, or disabled individuals).
- General Attendee: Not ready to exhibit? Register for free as a General Attendee to explore the Expo floor, network B2B and with U of M departments that have a booth. Plus, explore small business resources provided by nonprofit and local/state government agencies.
- Registration closes on Monday, Sept. 9, 2024, at 5:00PM CST.
For University Staff
- Exhibitor Opportunity: Show your dedication to supplier diversity by signing up your department as an exhibitor. This opportunity allows diverse suppliers to visit your booth, understand your department’s specific supplier needs, and introduce their businesses. Registration as an exhibitor is free for U departments and includes tickets to the AIR Awards Luncheon (while supplies last).
- General Attendee: Not ready to exhibit? Register for free as a U of M Staff General Attendee to explore the Expo floor and discover a wide variety of diverse suppliers.
- New this year: An exclusive section designated for event-related businesses! University staff can conveniently connect with diverse caterers, photographers, videographers, venues, decorators, and more.
- Registration closes on Monday, Sept. 9, 2024, at 5:00PM CST.
For Nonprofits & Government Agencies
- Exhibitor / Sponsorship Opportunities: Ensure the highest visibility for your organization or agency by signing up for a booth. Reduced fees apply! View options and register here.
- New this year: An exclusive section designated for event-related businesses!
- General Attendee: Not ready to exhibit? Register for free as a General Attendee to explore the Expo floor and presentations.
- Registration closes on Monday, Sept. 9, 2024, at 5:00PM CST.
The University of Minnesota Supplier Diversity Expo is hosted by the Office for Supplier Diversity and provides an excellent opportunity for University decision makers, diverse business owners, majority-owned firms, and community partners to:
- connect and network
- discover new suppliers
- discuss business opportunities, including B2B
- form joint ventures to maximize inclusion on University construction, goods, and services contracts
This year’s Expo will take place at the St. Paul RiverCentre on Tuesday, Oct. 8, 2024, from 9AM to 3PM.