News Release

FREDERICTON (GNB) – New Brunswick is hosting the 2021 Atlantic Provinces Reverse Trade Show, Oct. 18-24, to connect suppliers with the people, tools and processes needed for selling goods and services to government.

“New Brunswick is proud to be hosting this year’s event featuring exhibitors from across Atlantic Canada,” said Service New Brunswick Minister Mary Wilson. “Not only is this a great opportunity for local businesses to learn how to sell to government, it is also an important part of our New Brunswick First Procurement Strategy aimed at helping New Brunswick suppliers increase their chances of winning a government contract.”

Over the past 14 years, the provincial government has spent an average of $1.06 billion on procurement per year. This includes an average of $763 million in goods and services and $298 million in construction. Of these contracts, 79 per cent were awarded to New Brunswick companies.

“Public procurement is a key component to energizing the private sector by creating opportunities of growth for our province and the entire Atlantic region,” said Wilson. “I welcome any opportunity to talk about the New Brunswick First Procurement Strategy, and the Atlantic Provinces Reverse Trade Show provides an exciting opportunity to do so.”

The trade show is a collaborative effort between Service New Brunswick and Opportunities NB. More than 500 suppliers and 28 exhibitors are expected to attend virtually. Exhibitors will include provincial governments, the federal government, municipalities, post-secondary institutions and Crown corporations.

“The Atlantic Provinces Reverse Trade Show is another example of how government’s pro-growth agenda aims to support our local businesses and help them to compete and prosper,” said Arlene Dunn, minister responsible for Opportunities NB. “It is our way of saying we are open for business to get the best value for taxpayers, create jobs and strengthen the economy of our province and the entire Atlantic region.”

Unlike previous years, the 2021 trade show is being held virtually for seven days, giving registered participants free access to information videos and downloadable materials. Suppliers will be available during the Live Booth Day on Oct. 20 to answer questions and interact with buyers. Topics include public procurement, responding to a request for proposal, and a tribute to New Brunswick suppliers by Opportunities NB.

New Brunswick also hosted the Atlantic Provinces Reverse Trade Show in 2009, 2013 and 2017. Registration is free, however suppliers are encouraged to register in advance.

More information on the event, including registration details, is available online.