Local businesses can learn how to do business with the city of Cincinnati, Metro and several leading local organizations by attending a free Economic Inclusion Vendor Fair at the Duke Energy Convention Center on Oct. 29, from 8:30 a.m. - noon.
Joe Allen, general manager, GE Global Operations, will deliver the keynote presentation. Allen is the head of GE’s Global Operations for the region and will be located in Cincinnati at The Banks, bringing 2,000 potential new jobs to the area. The city of Cincinnati and Metro will also provide presentations on procurement practices and upcoming business opportunities.
The fair will include ample time for networking with many regional companies and organizations, including:
- African American Chamber of Commerce
- American Express
- Cincinnati Business Courier
- Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center
- Cincinnati Metropolitan Housing Authority
- Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport
- Cincinnati State Technical & Community College
- Cincinnati Streetcar
- Cincinnati USA Regional Chamber
- Cintas
- City of Cincinnati Office of Contract Compliance and division directors
- DBE programs at Ohio, Kentucky and Indiana Departments of Transportation
- Duke Energy Convention Center
- General Electric
- Hamilton County
- Macy's Inc.
- Metro
- Transit Authority of Northern Kentucky (TANK)
- University of Cincinnati
- U.S. Small Business Administration
“There is a tendency for people to do business with those they know. I encourage small businesses looking to grow their business to take advantage of this opportunity,” said Harry Black, Cincinnati city manager. “Vendors will meet City procurement representatives to gain an understanding of our procedures, and we want to meet our small businesses.”
“Metro understands the importance of being inclusive in our procurements,” said Jason Dunn, SORTA Board Chair. “We encourage businesses to attend the vendor fair. We want to help all participate in the economic vitality in the region.”
Free continental breakfast will be provided. Space is limited and reservations are required.
