University of Richmond hosts networking event for local businesses

April 24, 2015

The University of Richmond will hold its 2015 Business Opportunity Expo on May 15 from 12-4 p.m. in the Jepson Alumni Center.

Attendees will have the opportunity to network with University and community representatives and learn about the products and services offered by nearly 40 small, women- and minority-owned businesses (SWaM) in this fair-style event. The expo is organized by the Office of Strategic Sourcing and Payments as part of the Supplier Diversity Program.

“The Business Opportunity Expo is designed for business owners, business development managers, sales managers, buyers and entrepreneurs,” said Jean Hines, director, Strategic Sourcing and Payments. “This event provides the chance to meet potential customers, hear about new business opportunities and establish relationships with community business partners.”

Matchmaking sessions are available, providing businesses the opportunity to introduce products and services to representatives from UR as well as the City of Richmond and local county procurement offices.

New this year, the expo will include informational workshops, including:

  • “Transforming Your Business to be Successful,” Eric Watson, president and CEO, Carolinas-Virginia Minority Supplier Development Council, 12-12:30 p.m.
  • “How to Do Business with the City of Richmond”, Edward Gibbs, director of Purchasing Services, City of Richmond, 12:30-1 p.m.
  • “How to do Business with the University of Richmond,” Jerry Robinson, purchasing agent, UR Procurement and Strategic Sourcing and Chuck Rogers, director of design and construction, UR facilities, 1:15-1:45 p.m.
  • “100 Years Worth of Experience - Insight and Advice for Effective Business Practices,” panel discussion with SWaM business owners, moderated by Thomas Bowles, president, Key Personnel, 2-3 p.m.
  • “Marketing for Small Businesses,” Jeff Carlson, assistant professor of marketing, Robins School of Business, 3:15-4 p.m.

This event is open to the public, but registration is required. The cost to attend is $35 per person. For attendance and matchmaking, the cost is $50 per person. Attendees may sign up for the workshops and panel discussions during registration. Space is limited for these sessions, so signing up early is suggested.

More information is available at www.richmond.edu/supplier-diversity.

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