Business Event: Selling to Government

By Peterborough County:

Peterborough County, in partnership with the City of Kawartha Lakes, Trillium District School Board, City of Peterborough and Northumberland County, is hosting a free half-day event designed to help businesses gain a competitive edge in securing government contracts. Taking place on Thursday, May 29th, the Selling to Local Government - The Local Advantage event will bring together procurement professionals from across the region, offering invaluable insights into the municipal purchasing process.  

Local businesses are invited to join this interactive morning session to learn how to better navigate procurement systems, respond to bids more effectively, and ultimately increase their chances of winning public contracts. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just dipping your toes into government contracts, this event is perfect for you. Learn valuable insights, tips, and strategies from industry experts on how to navigate the world of municipal government procurement. Network with fellow entrepreneurs and business owners looking to expand their reach.      

Date: Thursday, May 29, 2025 
Location: Peterborough Curling Club, 2195 Lansdowne Street West, Peterborough
Time: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.   
Link: www.ptbocounty.ca/sellingtogovernment 

Event Highlights Include:

• A panel of Municipal Procurement Specialists, exploring how purchasing decisions are made, how "local" is considered in procurement, and top tips for strengthening bids. 
• Learn about the types of goods and services municipalities and school boards purchase regularly and how your business could qualify! 
• A speed networking session allowing businesses to meet procurement specialists face-to-face and introduce their products and services.  
• Opportunity for businesses to share barriers they have experienced during procurement processes and find ways to work through those challenges.   
• Discussions about upcoming municipal projects that will issue Requests for Proposals (RFPs).  

Who Should Attend:  
Any business located in Peterborough County, Northumberland County, the City of Kawartha Lakes, or the City of Peterborough that sells goods or services to government, including sectors such as catering, construction, fleet, software, consulting, and more.  

Cost to Attend:  
Free. Coffee, tea, and morning refreshments will be provided to business attendees.   

The Local Advantage and Peterborough County’s Tariff Action Plan:   
This event is part of Peterborough County’s broader initiative, The Local Advantage – With Peterborough County. It is designed to support and strengthen the local economy, currently facing pressure from unfair U.S. tariffs, by helping small and medium-sized businesses understand and access public procurement opportunities.

By demystifying the bidding process and removing unintended barriers, the County aims to encourage greater local participation in municipal purchasing.  

For Questions, please contact: 
Rhonda Keenan 
General Manager, Economic Development  
rkeenan@ptbocounty.ca