Pre-Conference Educational Series

NMSDC’s matchmaking sessions are designed to provide a setting for MBEs to connect with business opportunities, receive consultations, and access capital. Each year at the NMSDC Conference & Exchange, we host an in-person matchmaking event that facilitates direct interactions between MBEs and potential buyers, partners, and investors. During this webinar, MBEs will learn how to make the most of their onsite matchmaking experience, including strategies for effectively preparing, maximizing networking opportunities, and following up to turn connections into tangible business growth. 

At Macy's, Inc., they are guided by our values, which are embedded in how we think, act and operate and are woven throughout our business strategy. They call it Mission Every One. As part of this mission, we are directing  $5 billion of our spend through 2025  to our people, partners, products, and programs to create a more equitable and sustainable future. They believe that when our business includes everyone with a seat at the table, full potential can be realized, and innovation is unlocked.  

During the webinar, the Macy’s, Inc. team will share details about its business diversity ecosystem sphere of support, including programs and opportunities at the company.   MBEs will also learn how to grow their business through greater access to:  customers, education, and capital.  

*(Macy’s, Inc. includes Macy’s, Bloomingdale’s, and Bluemercury) 

Preparing for a meeting is one thing, but prepping for a ton of meetings—some in the elevator, some in line to register, others on the tradeshow floor, and maybe even in matchmaking sessions—takes it to a whole different level. How you prepare before, during, and after a conference greatly impacts how connected and supported you feel.

Join the board from "It's Not Just Dinner," a group of corporate and diverse supplier advocates focused on helping attendees leverage certification. As seasoned conference participants who once started as newcomers, this board is dedicated to ensuring that diverse certified suppliers receive the mentorship, education, diverse perspectives, sense of inclusion, and community connection needed to feel prepared and confident, whether in a conversation or entering a conference hall.

Webinar attendees will walk away with:

• Best practices for networking at a tradeshow/conference
• The importance of relationship-building
• How to develop a target list
• How to be memorable
• Things to consider—schedule, sessions, sneakers, and more
• Perspectives from both corporate representatives and MBEs planning to attend

In this webinar learn what corporations in the construction industry look for in diverse suppliers, understand their sourcing process, and discover how you can align your business with their procurement needs. Join us to explore opportunities for new business and growth.  

In this webinar learn what petrochemical and energy corporations look for in diverse suppliers, understand their sourcing process, and discover how you can align your business with their procurement needs. Join us to explore opportunities for new business and growth.  

With over $1 billion in diverse spend, PepsiCo is dedicated to cultivating and sustaining a diverse supplier base, building relationships that mirror its consumers, customers, and the communities it serves.  

In this webinar, you’ll gain insights into PepsiCo’s Supplier Diversity Partner Program, including what they look for in diverse suppliers, how their sourcing process works, and more. 

Join the New York & New Jersey Minority Supplier Development Council and Wells Fargo to learn practical strategies that will help you make the most of your time at any tradeshow or conference. You'll discover how to:

• Set realistic and achievable goals
• Prioritize your time to connect with key contacts
• Evaluate potential prospects effectively
• Deliver a powerful and impactful elevator pitch
• Use smart prospecting and research techniques

Equip your self with the tools you need to succeed and make every moment count!