Northern Illinois University

Procurement Services

2011 Supplier Diversity Networking Fair

New date: Wednesday March 2, 2011

Registration now closed.

Vendor Information Guide

Campus Buyer Guide

Program Flyer and Schedule

Bring a Friend Coupon


Photo Galleries

Minority and Female Business Enterprise (MAFBE) Program

Northern Illinois University is committed to increasing the participation of qualified business enterprises within the procurement process.    In accordance with the Minority and Female Business Enterprise Act (MAFBEA), NIU has developed and implemented programs and services designed to foster an inclusive procurement system that invites the broadest possible participation of all vendor sources. 

Supplier Diversity Networking Fair

The Supplier Diversity Networking Fair will be held on Wednesday, March 2, 2011 in the Holmes Student Center, Duke Ellington Ballroom from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.  The purpose of this event is to provide an opportunity for businesses to exhibit their products and services to the NIU campus community and to become familiar with the ways of doing business with NIU.  This is a great "one-stop-shopping" opportunity for faculty, staff, and student organizations to network with vendors who may provide cost effective and high quality products and services for their upcoming events and programs. 

How to Register for the Supplier Diversity Networking Fair

The Vendor Information Guide provides detailed information on how businesses can register for the Supplier Diversity Networking Fair. 

Faculty, Staff, and Student Organizations can learn more about this event, including how to register, in the Campus Buyer Information Guide.

What type of business would benefit by attending the Fair?

Business enterprises that meet the following criteria are encouraged to attend the Supplier Diversity Networking Fair:

·         At least 51% owned and controlled by a minority, woman or person with a disability and,

·         The owner is a citizen of the United States or resident alien and,

·         Average annual gross sales for the last three years are under $75 million.

 

Although State Certification  is not a requirement for attending the fair, certification with the State opens up doors to opportunities with other public and private buyers who are looking for diverse suppliers.  Also, we appreciate vendors who certify their business with the State and take advantage of the unique opportunities that are afforded them through the certification process including growing your company revenue, competing for State dollars (currently 10 billion dollars), enhancing your company's credentials, and building capacity.  During the fair, NIU Procurement Services buyers and representatives from the State of Illinois Department of Central Management Services will be available to answer questions or provide assistance with the procurement and certification processes.

Who on campus should attend the Fair?

Faculty, Staff, and student organization officers who: 

·        Plan events and programs;

·        Purchase supplies, commodities, or services for the university, their department or organization;

·         Identify quality products and services at competitive prices;

·         Seek new ways to balance the budge and cost effective ways to spend budget dollars;

·         Have an interest in networking and supporting businesses that are primarily owned and operated by persons with disabilities, women, and/or minorities.