Supplier Networking

Expand your Business Opportunities with the City of Atlanta!

Register NOW for our FREE Professional Networking Event During the Supplier Expo!

Meet with participating CoA department decision-makers in pre-scheduled small group meetings to learn about their needs and pitch your business!

Don't miss your chance to expand your reach, generate leads, and increase your business opportunities!

Things to Note:

  1. Spaces are limited! Appointments are available to individuals from businesses who have registered to attend the entire supplier event and are filled on a first-come, first-served basis.  

  2. A separate registration will be necessary to secure your appointment.

  3. The networking rounds will take place from approx. 12:00 pm – 4:00 pm in the Spanish Suite at the GICC.

    NOTE: Appointment start time may change due to the speakers’ presentations

  4. Each business may allow multiple employees to register for 1 appointment each.

    NOTE: Registering for an appointment or networking round doesn’t guarantee a spot. We reserve the right to change or cancel appointments if a vendor or multiple employees from one company register for appointments.

  5. Please ensure your mailbox is set to receive correspondence from 21stceg.com.

PARTICIPATING CoA DEPARTMENTS

Department participation is subject to change.

  • Atlanta IT Management (AIM)

  • Atlanta Police Department (APD)

  • Atlanta Fire & Rescue Department (AFRD)

  • Department of Aviation (DOA)

  • Department of City Planning (DCP)

  • Department of Enterprise Asset Management (DEAM)

  • Department of Public Works (DPW)

  • Department of Transportation (DOT)

  • Department of Parks & Recreation

  • Department. of Watershed Mgt. (DWM)

How Does It Work?

  • To participate, each person must first register for the 2024 Annual Supplier Outreach and Networking Expo by completing the Attendee or Exhibitor Registration Form(s).

  • Registrants indicate their first and second appointment preferences (which department they want to meet with) during the networking event registration process. We can't guarantee that each registrant will meet with their preferred departments, but will will do our very best to make it happen.

  • There will be 2 City of Atlanta department representatives per table for each networking round.

  • There will be (4) business slots per table for each networking round, and appointments are limited to (1) appointment per participant (not company). 

  • Your company can register multiple employees for one appointment each. The schedule we provide will show all employees at your company and which department(s) they will meet with.

  • Receive your networking appointment – Approximately (7) days before the event, the team will begin the matchmaking scheduling process. 

  • During this process, you will be presented with your company’s matchmaking schedule for the day and the selection of procurement representatives available to meet with you.

How to Prepare for the Networking Event?

Come prepared – this is a valuable opportunity to make meaningful connections and expand your professional network efficiently.

Here are some best practices to make the most out of the event:

  1. Prepare Your Elevator Pitch: Craft a concise, engaging introduction that highlights who you are, what you do, and what you're looking to achieve at the event. Keep it under 2 minutes so you can quickly share it during the networking rounds.

  2. Set Clear Goals: Know what you want to accomplish from the event. Whether it's making specific connections, gathering information, or seeking opportunities, having clear goals will help you focus your interactions.

  3. Research CoA Departments: If possible, research their backgrounds and websites. This will help you identify potential connections and conversation starters.

  4. Bring Ample Business Cards: and Exchange Contact Information:  Ensure you have enough business cards to distribute to everyone you meet. Make sure your cards are up-to-date and reflect your professional brand effectively. Exchange contact information before moving on to the next interaction. Consider connecting on LinkedIn or exchanging emails to continue the conversation later.

  5. Listen Actively: Focus on the person you're speaking with, listen attentively, and ask insightful questions. This demonstrates genuine interest and helps build rapport.

  6. Respect Time Limits: Speed networking events typically have strict time limits for each interaction. Be mindful of the time and avoid dominating the conversation. Aim for a balanced exchange of information.

Frequently Asked Questions About Procurement Matchmaking

How do you match Participants with the CoA Departments?

It is up to each registered business to select 2 preferences from the provided list of City of Atlanta departments, if neither are available, the closest match will be scheduled.

How long are the Matchmaking appointments?

Appointments are in 20-minute increments with a ten-minute break in between each appointment. 

Can I register my company on the day of the event?

No. Due to the preparation time that goes into the registration and scheduling of the program, registration must be in advance of the event. NOTE: A “standby” area will be onsite to fill in any no-show appointments.

Who are the CoA Departments that are expected to attend?

See the PARTICIPATING CoA DEPARTMENTS listing above. NOTE: Department participation is subject to change.

Will participating businesses be awarded contracts during the Supplier Networking Session?

No. Participating in the networking event is not a commitment or guarantee of a job, contract, or project with the City of Atlanta or any department.

For questions regarding the Supplier Networking Expo, please email [email protected].

TO LEARN MORE ABOUT HOW TO DO BUSINESS WITH THE CITY, VISIT:

Join Our Email List

Maecenas tempus, tellus eget condimentum rhoncus, sem quam semper libero, sit amet adipiscing sem neque sed ipsum. Maecenas nec odio et ante tincidunt tempus. Donec vitae sapien ut libero venenatis faucibus.

Unable to find form

Follow us on social media:

https://linktr.ee/atlprocurement

© Copyright 2024. ATLSupplierEvents.com All rights reserved.