Meet the Buyer to give businesses an insight into public sector procurement

‘Meet the Buyer’ will allow local SMEs to have one to one discussions with key decision makers so they can gain the confidence, knowledge and practical skills necessary to successfully tender for public sector and big business contracts.

Over 25 buyers will be in attendance including representatives from local education institutions and major public and private sector organisations.

Admission to the event is free but pre-registration by e mail is required as meetings are on an appointment basis only.

Business Officer at Derry City and Strabane District Council, Catherine Colins, said: “We are delighted to host this event which aims to give our local small and medium sized businesses the confidence to bid more intelligently for contracts with some of the biggest local organisations. The procurement process can be an intimidating one for business owners who don’t have previous experience of submitting a tender but public service representatives at this event will provide help and guidance to give local SMEs the best possible chance to make a successful bid.

“Companies who have attended this event in previous years have appreciated the opportunity to not only learn more about what private sector and big businesses are looking for but also to showcase their own offering.

“The event forms part of an exciting five day programme for Enterprise Week which focuses on supporting individuals who want to start a new business and help existing enterprises to grow.”

Full Buyer List: O’Neills International Sports Company, CITB NI, Heron Brothers, Central Procurement Directorate, Derry City and Strabane District Council, Donegal County Council, Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, Education Authority, ESB, DFI Roads and River Centre, NW Regional College, Translink, Visit Derry, Da Vincis Hotel, Everglades Hotel, Fir Trees Hotel, The SHS Group.

To register your expression of interest to participate in the Meet The Buyer Event email [email protected].

Please be advised that the closing date for expressions of interest is 5pm on Monday, February 24.

Enterprise Week 2020 will feature workshops, information seminars, networking events and drop in clinics offering support and guidance on a range of business matters such as financial advice, branding, driving innovation and promoting women in business, and first hand advice from industry recognised guest speakers.

For full programme details visit www.derrystrabane.com/enterpriseweek.

Keep up to date on Social Media by following @Business Support Derry Strabane on Facebook, @dcscbusiness on Twitter and using the hashtag #EW2020.