CAMSC’s 16th Diversity Procurement Fair Showcases Insights to Innovation – Virtual Event Facilitating Business Growth in Aboriginal and Minority-Owned Organizations Concludes with The Honourable Anita Anand, Minister of Public Services and Procurement Canada Discussing Adaptation to the Procurement Process During Covid-19

CAMSC’s 16th Diversity Procurement Fair Showcases Insights to Innovation – Virtual Event Facilitating Business Growth in Aboriginal and Minority-Owned Organizations Concludes with The Honourable Anita Anand, Minister of Public Services and Procurement Canada Discussing Adaptation to the Procurement Process During Covid-19

(Toronto, July 23, 2020) – Virtual attendees who attended the annual multi- day business facilitation and networking event today were given insights to innovation in an adapting world.  Supplier diversity leaders from industries such as automotive, food and beverage, pharmaceutical, and telecommunications participated in a wide range of online webinars.  Major sponsors included GM, Global Affairs Canada, Accenture, Magna and Nutrien.

Day 1 kicked off with the inaugural Export Forum that was created in response to the recent signing of the CUSMA, as well as the renewed focus on Onshoring. Suppliers heard from corporations who have successfully navigated crossing borders in their business ventures.  A Trade Commissioner from Global Affairs Canada discussed resources available to companies that strive to be export ready.  Also rounding out the first day included advice from a professional marketing Coach on how to successfully pitch business virtually, SD Talks, a series of corporate spotlights discussing how the pandemic is changing the landscape of businesses.

Day 2 was content full, with three panel discussions that started with innovation in the auto industry, followed by growth opportunities in the food and pharmaceutical industries and a discussion about what the future of work will look like as we all adapt to new normal.  The day ended with an intimate conversation with the Honourable Anita Anand, Minister of Public Services and Procurement Canada. She shared her vision for the modernization of government procurement, the steps taken to date during the pandemic, and the strategies the government is taking to nurture diversity in the procurement process across Canada.

“Going virtual with this event is a first for us,” said Cassandra Dorrington, President and CEO, CAMSC. “We can’t thank our network of corporate and supplier members enough for supporting this Fair with their knowledge and expertise.  We may be online, but we are still able to provide the content and connection our attendees expect.  And we remain focused on what we are constantly striving for: a future where supplier diversity is front and center in all facets of business here and globally.”

CAMSC’s Business Achievement Awards Gala is the organization’s next virtual event and recognizes leaders in supplier diversity. The event takes place Oct. 1 and nominations are open now until Aug. 14.  CAMSC certified members can nominate themselves or someone they do business with.

Fireside Chat:

The Honourable Anita Anand, Minister of Public Services and Procurement Canada (right) chats with Cassandra Dorrington, President and CEO, CAMSC about the government’s role in procurement during Covid-19 and ongoing efforts that focus on supplier diversity.

Automotive Panel:

(From left) Chuck Hendrix, Toyota, Moderator Kim Thiara, AceTronic, Ellyn Rogers, Magna and Reggie Humphrey, GM joined the virtual Automotive Panel and discussed the role of diverse suppliers in the industry.

Export Forum Panel:

Hugh Lawson, Staples (top), discussed doing business across borders with Edet Umoafia, ABC Technologies (bottom left), James Wong, Triplewell (bottom right) and June Fontaine, Global Affairs Canada (via phone) during the Export Panel.

About CAMSC

CAMSC is a non-profit organization established in 2004 to advance the economic strength of Aboriginal and visible minority communities through business development and employment. CAMSC’s mission is to facilitate business relationships with Canadian corporations and supplier organizations owned by Aboriginals and minorities. Since its inception, corporate members have spent more than $5 billion with CAMSC certified Aboriginal and minority-owned businesses and the network continues to grow. Visit www.camsc.ca

Media Contact:

Daphne Shih, Director of Business Development & Partnerships

Canadian Aboriginal and Minority Supplier Council

T: 416-941-0004 x223 E: dshih@camsc.ca

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