DEFY Conference 2024

June 12 – 14 — Montreal, QC

FORGE THE FUTURE AT 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.

SUPPLIER DIVERSITY ALLIANCE CANADA PRESENTS

DEFY CONFERENCE 2024

June 12-14, 2024 | Le Centre Sheraton Hotel, 1201 René-Levesque Blvd West, Montreal, QC

CAMSC, CGLCC, and IWSCC, (SDAC) together with WEConnect International as the event partner, join forces to bring you DEFY Conference 2024, Canada’s largest Supplier Diversity event.

DEFY is the SDAC’s first ever 3-day conference, an unmatched diverse supplier experience. This conference brings together all diverse entrepreneurs, corporate leaders, government, and ecosystem partners to learn, connect, and drive change through business through workshops, keynotes, matchmaking sessions, and fun-filled events.

As we navigate the rapidly changing waters in both political and economic spheres, we often ask ourselves how to DEFY the odds. How do we challenge tradition and encourage new and innovative solutions? How do we channel our companies in the right direction? Ultimately, how do we support and facilitate our companies to grow and expand their footprint across borders?

Travelling to DEFY?

Already attending DEFY Conference 2024? Take advantage of these conference savings to make the most of your time in at DEFY! For any questions, please contact [email protected].

Enjoy your stay in Montreal with special group rates at le Centre Sheraton Montreal Hotel. Travel dates: June 11 – June 14. Book by May 22, 2024 to secure this exclusive rate.

Save up to 10% on North American flights to Montreal with Air Canada. Flights between Wednesday, June 5 and Friday, June 21 are eligible for discounts using the code QQHHY2T1 on AirCanada.com

Take advantage of 10% off travel with Via Rail using the corporate code 15578. Trips between Wednesday, June 5 and Friday, June 21 are eligible for discounts.

What to Expect

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.
Trade show floor with sponsors, big governments, big corporations, and a range of 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!

Days of Connecting

Keynotes, Breakout Sessions, Workshops and Bootcamps

Procurement proffessionals, diverse suppliers and industry leaders

How does attending DEFY 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? Register by May 13th for early access to matchmaking and the best rates on accommodation!

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

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

Embracing Authenticity: Branding Workshops 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.