For the first time, the DEFY Conference brought diverse entrepreneurs and business owners together under one roof where they could meet corporate leaders, government representatives, and ecosystem partners. Held June 12-14, 2024, in Montreal, the Supplier Diversity Alliance Council (SDAC) inspired the event, which CAMSC, CGLCC, IWSCC, and WEConnect hosted. The 3-day conference featured workshops, keynote speakers, matchmaking sessions, networking events, and a tradeshow.
The DEFY Conference had three learning tracks. “AI in the Spotlight” had panels and workshops to explore the integration of AI into the procurement process and best practices. The “Sustainability in the Supply Chain” learning track explored best practices in sustainability, managing Scope 3 emissions, and carbon credits. The most comprehensive learning track was “Diversity and Inclusion.” The topics included the supplier's perspective on defining their professional and lived experiences to overcome barriers and the buyer's perspective on developing procurement requirements that recognize the suppliers’ collective experience.
One of the overarching messages of the DEFY Conference was to find your community and embrace authenticity as a diverse entrepreneur. Whether a 2SLGBTQI+, woman, or person of color entrepreneur, challenging the status quo and how business is completed is needed to shape the future.
The three days of the DEFY Conference were packed with activities. There were matchmaking sessions with one-on-one face time, networking opportunities to meet potential buyers, partners, and peers, receptions for socializing, and face-to-face interactions with speakers. It was an ideal time for diverse suppliers to have real-time interactions with people and businesses they needed to break into corporate procurement opportunities.
Export Development Canada (EDC) and the Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC) work together to assist Canadian entrepreneurs interested in expanding in global markets. An excellent example of the quality presentations at the DEFY Conference was the organization’s breakout session, “Elevate Your Business: Strategies and Partners to Support Growth in Canada and Beyond.” The session’s guest speakers were Noemie Berlus from Facile à lire and Trisha Pitura and Melanie Bernard from Mini Tipi, who shared their experiences. The session also discussed expanding businesses abroad and fostering a supportive network of advisors and partners.
“DEFYING” the odds and challenging tradition supports the path to success for diverse entrepreneurs and businesses. Attending conferences like DEFY is essential to generating change because change only comes when entrepreneurs and businesses are informed and work together.