Saskatchewan business expo to connect vendors with government contracts

EAGLE STAFF

Sales people with businesses that would like to provide their products or services to government agencies will attend a gathering in Saskatoon on Oct. 29.

The province’s Business Expo and Procurement Forum happens at Hall B in Prairieland Park from 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

“The forum gives businesses, vendors and suppliers a chance to connect with the public sector - including executive government, Crown corporations and the municipalities, advanced education, school divisions and health-care sector,” a statement said.

Those attending will also learn about scheduled public sector projects and how to bid, said David Marit, whose responsibilities include SaskBuilds and Procurement.

“The province is focused on building opportunities, growing existing and new sectors and connecting the world to Saskatchewan,” added Warren Kaeding, the trade and export development minister, noting that delegates will learn about government-related construction, engineering and manufacturing plans.

Those attending will also receive “an early look” at a supplier portal, part of a “government enterprise management system” that the government intends to use, said Karen Cossitt, the department’s chief procurement officer. The day will also include educational sessions, networking, discussion panels and presentations, Cossitt said. Government staff will inform participants about the new portal and outline how suppliers can use it, the statement said.

Tickets are available through the Prairieland Park ticket website.

“Learn best practices for bidding on public sector contracts and discover what makes Saskatchewan's procurement process unique,” the statement added.