The University of Illinois System will host the second annual Diverse Business Opportunity Fair on Wednesday, Aug. 28 at the iHotel Conference Center in Champaign.
The fair invites companies owned by minorities, women, veterans and people with disabilities to connect with staff from the U of I System and its three universities in all areas of service and supply needs, from construction and food services to office and athletic supplies.
Expanding diversity – from enrollment to the businesses that provide goods and services – is a priority across the U of I System, and the Board of Trustees has challenged leadership to make the system a national model for identifying and increasing business with diverse suppliers.
“From inside our classrooms to our vendor network, our goal is a U of I System that mirrors the rich diversity of our state and nation,” said President Tim Killeen.
Attending business vendors also will learn about programs and resources available to assist them. Companies will have an opportunity to certify for free with the State of Illinois’ Business Enterprise Program and learn how to register with the Illinois Procurement Gateway (IPG) and Higher Education Procurement Bulletin.
Last year, the Diverse Business Opportunity Fair drew more than 200 businesses. This year is anticipated to attract more.
“This event is just one of the many initiatives we offer to identify and qualify local suppliers that can deliver the best value and highest quality products and services at a competitive price,” said Sharla Roberts, director of U of I System Procurement Diversity Director, which sponsors the fair. “We have a responsibility to build and develop partnerships, business opportunities, and our communities.”
The U of I System accounts for 90 percent of the total dollars spent with minority- and women-owned businesses among all Illinois public universities. Over the last three years, the U of I System has spent more than $70 million annually with diverse businesses on goods and services. The U of I System also is the third-largest spender with diverse vendors among state agencies, trailing only the Illinois Department of Transportation and Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services.
What: Diverse Business Opportunity Fair
When: Wednesday, Aug. 28
Opening Remarks, Noon
Vendor Fair, 1-4 p.m.
Networking Reception, 4 p.m.
Where: iHotel Conference Center
1900 S. First St., Champaign
Register: https://go.uillinois.edu/2019diversebusinessfairuofi at 217-244-9671 or by email: procurementdiversity@uillinois.edu
