DEFY Conference 2024

A first-of-its-kind experience, DEFY Conference 2024 is the 3-day conference that brings together diverse entrepreneurs, corporate leaders, government, and ecosystem partners to learn, connect, and drive change through business, with keynotes, matchmaking sessions, and fun-filled events. Join us in Montreal from June 12 – 14, 2024, at Le Centre Sheraton Hotel in Montréal, Quebec – Canada.

The conference is the brain-child of SDAC (Supplier Diversity Alliance Canada) and uses the solid foundations laid out by CAMSC (Canadian Aboriginal and Supplier Minority Council), CGLCC (Canadian Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce) and IWSCC (Inclusive Workplace and Supply Council of Canada) alongside WEConnect International (International partner)

All are welcome! And if you’re a member of any of the organizations mentioned above, there are special prices for you.

Keep reading to find out more about:

• Key information on DEFY Conference 2024
• What you can learn at DEFY, in more detail
• How attending DEFY can help your business/corporation

Who should attend the DEFY Conference 2024?

• Are you a diverse entrepreneur looking to take your business to the next level? DEFY is for you!
• Are you a corporate executive managing Procurement, HR, or DEIB (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging)? DEFY is perfect for you as well!

Maybe you’re a government member looking to connect with the broader diverse supplier community to advance policy. Come to DEFY. It is the right place for you, too!

To summarize, DEFY Conference 2024 is the perfect environment for all diverse business owners and professionals working to diversify the supply chain.

DEFY Conference 2024: Where, when, why and how to register

Early Bird prices are now available! Register before March 24  to enjoy the best prices on all tickets.

DEFY 2024 chooses the bustling city center of Montreal as its debut place from June 12-14. With a privileged geographical location, La Métropole offers easy access to folks from all over North America while cutting the travel time short for those from other countries. More reasons to attend:

• Three entire days to live and breathe Supplier Diversity in the supply chain.
• Representatives from Canada’s central diverse certifying bodies (CAMSC, CGLCC and IWSCC) and international partners like WEConnect International.
• Hundreds of certified suppliers corporate and government entities with whom to network.
• Tradeshow floor with sponsors, big governments, big corporations, and various suppliers from all tiers.
• Educational content: Live workshops and keynotes.
• Dedicated matchmaking sessions catered to different industries and opportunities.
• A welcoming community: If you are new to the diverse supplier community, you are in for a treat!

Opportunities to network, learn and share your experiences

Supplier Diversity in Canada is a business case scenario. We understand that we need to move the needle for businesses to create an impact that sends waves across the whole supply chain; hence, at DEFY 2024, you’ll have plenty of opportunities for 1-1 matchmaking, networking, and collective discussions.

The important stuff: Registering to DEFY Conference 2024 gives you access to reception parties 🥳 YAY! Catch up with old friends and make new ones along the way!

Travelling to DEFY Conference?

If you’re travelling to attend DEFY, Le Centre Sheraton Hotel Montreal is the place to stay! After all, this is where the conference takes place, and it’s conveniently located right at the heart of this beautiful city. Follow this link to book at a special rate, exclusive to attendees 😉.

We’re also pleased to offer air and rail transit travel discounts for DEFY 2024. To learn more about these options, please contact events@supplierdiversityalliance.ca.

Learning Tracks: Boost your career with diversity specialists

If you’re coming to DEFY 2024 to accelerate your career in diversity, we’ve got you covered! With plenty of content divided into three learning tracks, you’ll have your hands full for the three days. Here’s some of the content you’ll have access to:

AI in the Spotlight

• How do you integrate AI into the procurement process – Using Generative AI to improve processes
• What are the best practices for leveraging AI in procurement
• AI in procurement – Value of AI and Data

Sustainability in the Supply Chain

• Forging a Path to Sustainability – Best Practices and the road map to a net zero
• Scope 3 Emissions – Getting it done
• Carbon Credits – Compensating for GHG

Diversity and Inclusion:

• Defining experience (Supplier Perspective): How can a diverse supplier communicate their collective (i.e. pro & lived) experience to overcome barriers to entry in procurement?
• Defining experience (Buyer Perspective): What are effective/creative strategies for guiding requirements in procurement to recognize the collective experience of a diverse-owned, possibly small or young business?
• Embracing Authenticity: Branding Workshop for 2SLGBTQI+ Entrepreneurs designed specifically for 2SLGBTQI+ entrepreneurs seeking to develop and enhance their brand identity while staying authentic
• Moving Economic Reconciliation beyond Token Gestures
• Gender equality, Breaking The Bias, Women’s Economic Empowerment, The Funding Gap, and others.Accelerate your career today.

How Attending DEFY Can Help Your Business?

DEFY creates the perfect environment to develop long-lasting relationships between the main actors in the Canadian supply chain. By putting Corporations, suppliers of all sizes and government in the same space, the discussions and commitments made in the three days continue to generate impact after the convention wraps up:

• Matchmaking sessions with 1-on-1 face time
• Receptions to socialize with your peers and create connections with new folks and partners
• Meet potential buyers, partners, and peers to elevate your business
• Face-to-face interactions with speakers and time for Q&A
• Meet the organizations bringing Supplier Diversity to the forefront

With so many benefits on the line, what are you waiting for? Early Bird prices are available until March 24.

Join DEFY Conference 2024 on June 12-14 and help us Forge the Future of Supplier Diversity!