Page 3 - access 2018 brochure part 1.cdr

From the President

.

Meaningful Connections. .Impactful Growth

Celebrating 45 Years of Maximizing
Meaningful Connections!

The Dallas/Fort Worth Minority Supplier Development Council ACCESS 2018 Business
Expo is all about maximizing connections. Each year we talk connections and work
hard to make sure people connect in new and different ways. This year, our 45th
anniversary year, we are adding another twist to ACCESS. We’re opening up the expo
floor! We’re lowering the draping and letting you see the entire floor at a glance. Our
exciting open floor plan is designed to allow more collaboration and relaxation while
you build important relationships to improve your supply chain and/or business.

Speaking of building relationships, do not miss out on these key elements of ACCESS
that keep getting better each year:

Day One - May 7th

Ÿ BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND – MBE Academy presents Procurement – The Buyer Perspective – If
you missed the standing-room only session at ACCESS 2017, don’t miss this session. The Toyota team has
agreed to do it again. Find out from Toyota senior procurement professionals what buyers are looking for
from suppliers and how to successfully connect with supply chain professionals. Get there early!

Ÿ Doing Business Texas Style Spot Bid Fair – Always a fantastic opportunity to win immediate business, the
Spot Bid Fair continues to grow and produce results. State Senator Royce West and the HUB Coordinators
awarded more than $3.7 million in 2017. This year, they are seeking to award even more. Let’s make sure
they don't leave any money on the table. Visit the Spot Bid Fair and enter your winning bids!

Ÿ Opening Power Reception – Don’t miss this powerhouse reception with the Board of Directors, MBE Input
Committee Leadership, buying and supplier diversity professionals, State of Texas HUB coordinators and
MBEs. Enjoy great food and beverages while making connections and building relationships.

Day Two - May 8th

Day two is when the real work begins. Wear some comfortable shoes, map out your plan on who to talk with and
introduce yourself to some people you don’t know.
Ÿ One-on-One Matchmakers – Business connections often begin with a simple conversation. No

promises...no pressure. Just a 1-on-1 introductory session to explore the possibilities and get to know each
other better. MBEs must register by May 1st in order to be considered.
Ÿ Round Table Speed Introductions – Get a glimpse into our Buying Entity Partners and their business
needs, as well as what MBEs have to offer. That 30-second pitch is all important. MBEs, what have you done
for other clients? Start there. And remember, you might be sitting next to your next new client.
Ÿ Media Opportunities Everywhere – Get youself and your company noticed at ACCESS. Join the Social
Media experience at #DFWMSDC45. Stop by the Media Lounge to record your Five Word Challenge and
have a chance to provide on-the-floor interviews with our media team. You might be a star in the making!

Thank you to our signature sponsors – Toyota and Group O! Toyota is our 45th Anniversary Sponsor and will
help us celebrate all year long. Group O, a long time sponsor of the Closing Reception, realizes the value of
ACCESS to their business. They are this year’s MBE signature sponsor. Thank you to all the exhibitors, behind-
the-scenes ambassadors and volunteers. You are amazing and make ACCESS work for everybody.

DID YOU KNOW...?
The Council hosted a trade mission to England in 1988.