The Michigan Made Showcase will provide selected businesses an opportunity to exhibit and sample (two-ounce product portions) to auto-show attendees. There may be an additional opportunity to sell packaged takeaway products, subject to review and approval. Each business will have a designated date and five-hour timeslot to participate during the event. There is no cost to participate and PMBC will cover the cost of the product sample, though an application is required and due by July 17. An application review committee will select up to eight businesses to showcase. Participation criteria is listed below, please do not apply if you do not meet these eligibility terms.

Selected businesses will be required to:

1. Submit a sampling form to the venue management company for approval
2. Provide a copy of their business license
3. Provide a copy of their Certificate of Insurance, which must include Sodexo, Detroit Regional Convention Facility Authority, and The Detroit Auto Show names as additional insured parties

Pure Michigan Business Connect seeks a diverse group of vendors from around the state with a variety of products. Suppliers of non-alcoholic beverages, salty snacks, sweet snacks, healthy snacks, gluten-free items, and Michigan-themed consumable items are encouraged to apply. We will not be able to accommodate meal items (i.e. sandwiches, salads, soups) in this showcase.

 Stairway to Success Summit: Vendor Masterclass by Meijer Market Format

Attendees will:

• Learn what it takes to become a Meijer vendor
• Network with Meijer representatives, business resource partners, and other participants
• Hear from Michigan businesses who have found success in Market Format stores
• Participate in one-on-one buyer-supplier meetings, if selected

Presentations will include information on food safety; marketing/branding; successful retail demoing; diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives; business pitch prep, and more.

Selected attendees will participate in 15-minute one-on-one meetings with buyers to discuss Meijer Market Format stores’ upcoming purchasing needs and opportunities to get products on shelves.

The Stairway to Success Summit is hosted in partnership with Pure Michigan Business Connect (PMBC), the Michigan Department of Agriculture & Rural Development (MDARD), and the MSU Product Center.

This event will be held in Detroit on Sept. 19. Space will be limited and available on a first-come first-serve basis. There is no cost to attend, though registration is required. Attendees interested in participating in one-on-one meetings with buyers during the event will need to submit a separate application.