Do you own a small business? We want to meet you! GRTC will host a free “Meet the Buyer” event on Wednesday, December 13, 2023, from 10 a.m. to 12 a.m. at GRTC’s headquarters at 301 East Belt Boulevard, Richmond, VA 23224.
Our goal is to connect small and diverse businesses with GRTC by providing this opportunity for your company to meet our buyers and learn about GRTC's purchasing needs and contracting opportunities.
Attendees can expect to speak directly to the GRTC decision-makers, including meeting with the Procurement Department to receive information on the ins and outs of the GRTC procurement process. Please fill out the form below to pre–register for the upcoming event.
Q: Am I a Small Business?
A: The Small Business Administration (SBA), for most industries, defines a “small business” either in terms of the average number of employees over the past 12 months, or average annual receipts over the past three years. In addition, SBA defines a U.S. small business as a concern that:
The business may be a sole proprietorship, partnership, corporation, or any other legal form. In determining what constitutes a small business, the definition will vary to reflect industry differences, such as size standards.
Q: Who are the Buyers?
A: Buyers are the purchasing agents or contacts from the various GRTC departments looking to procure products or services from smaller, diverse business sources.
Q: How do I meet with Buyers?
A: Vendors will be able to speak with buyers at their respective table assignments for five to ten minutes throughout the event. You may need to wait behind others before you have your opportunity to connect. Please be courteous while in line and be aware of others waiting after you.
Q: Will I get business at the Event?
A: No, not usually. You will have a five-to-ten-minute meeting with a Buyer. A short meeting does not create a buying relationship, but it is a great start!
Q: Will they call me back?
A: This event is the first step in your marketing efforts with GRTC. Your company has been added to our internal Vendors Directory and when a need for your products or services arises they will contact you. You are responsible for updating your contact information when necessary.
Please be sure you arrive at the Event with the following materials:
Q: How should I dress?
A: While many business expos are business casual, you should consider this Expo to be a sales call and dress appropriately. You can never go wrong when you dress in business attire!
Q: Why do I need to provide my NAICS codes and a brief company description?
A: As a benefit to you, this information will be provided to all the Buyers in attendance. This is another way to help increase your company’s visibility with government, large corporations, and other organizations even if you don’t meet directly with a particular Buyer. You must register prior to December 13, 2023, for your information to be included.
Q: How will I know which Buyers are attending?
A: You will see signs directing you at the event to each Buyer. Here are some of the products and services our Buyers need:
Still have questions? Email supplierdiversity@ridegrtc.com