It's a tradeshow where vendors meet public procurement professionals — not the other way around!
The 6th Annual Reverse Vendor Tradeshow gives vendors a rare chance to connect directly with procurement professionals from Ontario’s public agencies — municipalities, school boards, and other publicly funded organizations. Showcase your products, build relationships, and network face-to-face with decision-makers all in one place.
Due to high demand, registration has been extended until October 27 @ 4:00PM.
Please Note:
The Speed Networking event is sold out, but don’t worry — you’ll still have plenty of opportunities to meet and connect with all participating agencies at their tradeshow booths.
Event Details
What's on the Agenda
Important Dates:
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Program Schedule
8:45 AM – 9:15 AM | Registration & Open Networking
- Vendors check in and badge pick-up
9:15 AM – 12:45 PM | Reverse Vendor Tradeshow
- Vendors connect with public agencies at exhibitor booths.
- Information Talks: Focused sessions on public procurement topics.
9:45 – 11:15 AM | Session 1: How To do Business with the Government
11:30 – 12:00 AM | Session 2: Navigating e-Procurement as a Supplier
11:00 AM – 12:30 PM | Speed Networking (registered attendees only)
- Pre-scheduled, 10-minute one-on-one meetings with public agencies.
- A list of participating agencies will be announced closer to the event.
- Online meeting bookings open 1 week before the event date.
NOTE: The Speed Networking event is now sold out.
But don’t worry — you’ll still have the opportunity to meet and connect with all participating agencies at their tradeshow booths.
1:00 PM – 2:00 PM | Lunch
(For Reverse Vendor Tradeshow attendees who are registered for RFP Essentials for Suppliers Session)
2:00 PM – 4:00 PM | Understanding the RFP Process: A Supplier's Guide
Led by public procurement practitioners with real-world insights (and a good sense of humor), this session pulls back the curtain on the Request for Proposal (RFP) process from the other side of the table. Whether you're new to public sector RFPs or looking to fine-tune your approach, the #RFPDreamTeam will share practical tips and a fresh perspective.
4:00 PM | Event Concludes
Download the Reverse Vendor Tradeshow Flyer
Reverse Vendor Tradeshow Pricing
Reverse Vendor Tradeshow Event: $100 per person
Optional Add-Ons:
Speed Networking Event: $30 per meeting (up to 3 meetings)
(Must register for the Reverse Vendor Tradeshow event to participate in Speed Networking.)
Understanding the RFP Process: A Supplier's Guide Educational Session
Presented at the 6th Annual OPBA Reverse Vendor Tradeshow
Let’s face it—RFPs aren’t always written with vendors in mind. They can be confusing, overly complicated, or lacking key context. That’s where this session comes in.
Led by public procurement practitioners with real-world insights (and a good sense of humor), this session pulls back the curtain on the Request for Proposal (RFP) process from the other side of the table. Whether you're new to public sector RFPs or looking to fine-tune your approach, the #RFPDreamTeam will share practical tips and a fresh perspective.
You’ll learn:
- What goes into crafting an RFP (and why it sometimes turns out the way it does)
- How to read between the lines and spot what's really being asked
- Smart strategies for asking clarifying questions—and why it benefits everyone
- Why debriefs aren’t just for the losing team (and how to request one)
- How to address confusing or restrictive specifications in a constructive manner
- Tips and tricks to improve your proposal responses, stand out from the competition, and avoid common pitfalls
This session is all about empowerment through education. Bring your curiosity, your questions, and maybe your sense of humor. We’re here to make the RFP process more transparent, collaborative, and, dare we say, better for everyone.
Note: Vendors can register for this session without registering for the Reverse Vendor Tradeshow event.
Lunch Not Included (RFP session only): $125 per person
Lunch Included: $150 per person
Reverse Vendor Tradeshow Event All Day Package: $225 per person
(Includes Tradeshow & Information Talks + Lunch + RFP Essentials for Supplier Educational Session)
Please refer to our refund + payment policy for information regarding cancellations and/or refunds.
Note: Pricing is subject to HSTSponsorship Opportunities
Put your brand in front of engaged public sector procurement professionals. Our sponsorship packages amplify your visibility before, during, and after the Reverse Vendor Tradeshow.
- Reach municipalities, education, healthcare & broader public sector agencies
- Elevate brand visibility
- Connect & build relationships in one day
- Support the OPBA community & public procurement excellence
Want to raise your profile with both public procurement professionals and vendor attendees? Our updated sponsorship options now include dual-audience visibility—a unique opportunity to support the event and connect directly with both sides of the procurement process.
New! B2B / Dual-Audience Sponsorship Highlights:
- Inclusion in post-event “Thank You” email sent to all vendors
- Brand exposure to suppliers and public agencies
- Opportunities to participate during sponsored breakfast or lunch sessions
Sponsorship packages are limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis.
To learn more or secure your spot, contact Wendy Gan at wendy@opba.ca.
See our growing list of Exhibitors
Proudly Supported by Our Sponsors
