Virginia’s supplier expo returns to the Beach

Two related events, different decisions

Virginia’s Department of General Services lists Forum2026 at the Virginia Beach Convention Center for November 15–18. The conference brings together procurement professionals and suppliers for learning and business connections.

Supplier Connect takes place November 17 within that program. Its expo runs from 10:20 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.; the dedicated matchmaking period is 1:30–3:15 p.m. for confirmed appointments. Businesses should review the supplier route before buying a general conference pass.

Prepare for the buyer conversation

Start with what your business actually supplies, the customers it is equipped to serve and a concise explanation of relevant experience. Review the organizer’s commodity-code and appointment requirements rather than assuming every participant will meet every buyer.

An exhibitor booth, an attendance pass and a scheduled buyer meeting do different jobs. Compare the package, staff time and follow-up capacity before choosing one. Give the meeting a purpose: a clearer understanding of the buyer’s needs and a useful next conversation.

Choose the right registration route

DGS lists October 23 as the deadline to complete general Forum registration and purchase an attendance pass, with no onsite pass sales. Suppliers exhibiting at Supplier Connect use the separate supplier-registration route.

For local firms, the benefit is a nearby setting for a focused procurement conversation. Prepare a capability statement that matches the opportunity, decide who will handle follow-up and keep the next step specific.

Explore the details

• DGS Forum2026 overview
• DGS Supplier Connect

Explore more Port & GovCon stories and supplier resources.

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