Join us at OPBA’s 6th Annual Reverse Vendor Tradeshow!

Date: Wednesday, October 29, 2025
Time: 9:15 AM – 12:45 PM
Location: Pearson Convention Centre, Brampton, ON

The Ontario Public Buyers Association (OPBA) invites all suppliers to attend our 6th Annual Reverse Vendor Tradeshow. This event offers a valuable opportunity to connect with procurement professionals from a wide range of Ontario-based public sector organizations, including municipalities, school boards, colleges/universities, and other publicly funded institutions.

You’ll have the chance to:

Introduce your products or services directly to public procurement professionals
Build valuable relationships
Gain insight into upcoming opportunities
Attend targeted educational sessions

Program Schedule

8:45 AM – 9:15 AM | Registration & Open Networking
Vendor check-in and badge pick-up.

9:15 AM – 12:45 PM | Reverse Vendor Tradeshow
Visit exhibitor booths and meet procurement professionals from various public agencies.
Information Talks: Focused, short sessions highlighting key public procurement topics.

Optional Add-Ons

11:00 AM – 12:30 PM | Speed Networking

Registered Tradeshow 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 booking opens 1 week before the event.

Important Details:

Speed Networking booking is separate from Tradeshow registration.
You must be registered for the Tradeshow to participate.
Confirmation emails will be sent with your booking link and opening time.
First come, first served. Spots fill quickly!
Limit of 3 meetings per vendor. Extra bookings will be removed.
$30 per meeting (payment due at time of booking).
Pro Tip: Save the link and set a calendar reminder for when booking opens!

2:00 PM – 4:00 PM | Understanding the RFP Process: A Supplier’s Guide Educational Session

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.

Cost: $125 per person
You do not need to attend the Tradeshow to register for this session.

Registration Options

Please select your preferred registration package at checkout:

Tradeshow Only – $100 per person
Tradeshow + participate in Speed Networking option (Payment is made separately at booking a week before the event. Limited spots -- first come, first served) – $100 per person
Understanding the RFP Process: A Supplier’s Guide Educational Session ONLY (with lunch) – $125 per person
Understanding the RFP Process: A Supplier’s Guide Educational Session ONLY (without lunch) – $150 per person
All-Day Package (Tradeshow + Lunch + Understanding the RFP Process: A Supplier's Guide) – $225 per person

Questions? Email events@opba.ca

Don’t forget to check back for updates to the exhibitor list here.

Please refer to our refund + payment policy for information regarding cancellations and/or refunds.

We look forward to seeing you there!