2025 Symposium




PARTNERING FOR PROGRESS:
Procurement that Powers Opportunity
The 2025 City of Chicago Procurement Symposium is a high-impact, one-day, in-person event designed to transform the way public agencies and private enterprises collaborate. With a focused lens on professional services and technology, this year’s symposium highlights the critical role of inclusion, access, and innovation in strengthening the procurement ecosystem.
Bringing together state and local procurement officials, small businesses, diverse suppliers, and technology leaders, the symposium provides a powerful platform to foster connections, share strategies, and advance equitable economic growth through smarter, more modern public sector procurement.
Under the theme “Partnering for Progress: Procurement that Powers Opportunity,” this year’s event champions an action-oriented approach to modern government sourcing—where partnerships lead to progress, and opportunities are inclusive by design.
Why Attend?
- Gain open access to current and future public sector contracting opportunities
- Build meaningful connections through curated B2B/B2G matchmaking
- Learn how to navigate procurement pathways and certifications
- Explore tech-forward strategies for smarter, more equitable sourcing
- Be part of a collaborative movement driving innovation and economic inclusion
September 4, 2025
Malcolm X College
1900 West Jackson Blvd
10AM to 3PM | Doors at 9:30AM
Program Details
- Sharla Roberts, Chief Procurement Officer
- Chicago Works Together: Maximizing Professional Services Opportunities on th Red Line Extension (RLE) Project
- Fireside Chat: Crossroads of Equity, Power, & Chicago's Next Move
- Beyond the Bank: Funding Pathways for Entrepreneurs in a Dynamic Regulatory Climate
- Aviation Power Hour: Doing Businss with O'Hare Construction Manager at Risk Contracts (CMARs)
- Supporting Local Partnerships: Work with the Chicago Department of Transportation
- From Paper to Partner: How to Work with the Department of Technology & Innovation
We hope to see you there!
Please reach out to DPS.Feedback@CityofChicago.Org for any accommodation needs.



