Business owners and consultants met with IUPUI procurement officers during an Aug. 15 event co-hosted by the IUPUI Office of Community Engagement and the Indy Chamber to strengthen the city’s business climate, revitalize its neighborhoods and enhance the region’s workforce. Innovate Indiana was a co-sponsor.
Michael Huber, president and CEO of Indy Chamber, and Amy Conrad Warner, IUPUI vice chancellor for community engagement, welcomed attendees to “How to Do Business with IUPUI” event. Robert Halter, IUPUI executive director of purchasing and supplier diversity, advised attendees on how to connect with the university through its purchasing web portal.
The event concluded with attendees networking with IU procurement officers, asking questions about the procurement process and goods and services purchased by the university.
Teresa A. Bennett, IUPUI assistant vice chancellor for community engagement, said the event is part of the IUPUI Anchor Institution Initiative. She said the initiative harnesses the power of large, local organizations and businesses to influence economic and community development in three key areas of “Live,” “Hire” and “Buy.”
“The ‘How to Do Business with IUPUI’ event focused on Indy Chamber members, and later this fall we will explore opportunities to host similar events for neighborhood vendors and business owners,” Bennett said. “IUPUI purchases millions of dollars of goods and services each year and seeks to attract local businesses to enhance the economy of Central Indiana as well as develop mutually beneficial partnerships.”
Innovate Indiana was an event co-sponsor, providing financial support through the Regional Economic Development Fund. The fund nurtures economic growth in Indiana by awarding grant money to IU entities that submit qualifying proposals. These proposals are reviewed by the IU Council for Regional Engagement and Economic Development.
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