Michigan Business Beat | Brad Zaun, SBA, Detroit Supplier Matchmaking Expo Opportunities June 5th

Jeffrey Mosher welcomes Brad Zaun, Acting Regional Great Lakes Administrator, US SBA - Small Business Administration. There were several questions he wanted to find out about from Brad in this conversation. The 2026 Supplier Matchmaking Expo is focused on connecting suppliers directly with major buyers. Why are events like this becoming increasingly important for small and midsize businesses trying to grow? This year’s expo includes one-on-one matchmaking meetings with corporate and government buyers. How can businesses best prepare to make the most of those conversations? The event emphasizes strengthening U.S. supply chains and “Made in America” partnerships. What opportunities does that create for Michigan manufacturers and suppliers specifically? Many smaller businesses may assume supplier expos are only for large manufacturers. What types of companies should really consider attending this event, and why? Beyond networking, what long-term business value can companies gain from participating in the Supplier Matchmaking Expo in Detroit on June 5th? » Visit MBN website: www.michiganbusinessnetwork.com/ » Watch MBN’s YouTube: www.youtube.com/@MichiganbusinessnetworkMBN » Like MBN: www.facebook.com/mibiznetwork » Follow MBN: twitter.com/MIBizNetwork/ » MBN Instagram: www.instagram.com/mibiznetwork/ The upcoming SBA Supplier Matchmaking Expo taking place Friday, June 5, 2026. Hosted by the U.S. Small Business Administration in collaboration with the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, Michigan Alliance of APEX Accelerators, Michigan Small Business Development Center, and DTMB - Central Procurement Services, the event is designed to connect suppliers directly with corporate and government buyers looking to strengthen U.S. supply chains. Brad explains why matchmaking events are increasingly valuable for small and midsize businesses, how companies can prepare for one-on-one buyer meetings, and what “Made in America” initiatives could mean for Michigan manufacturers and suppliers. The conversation also highlights how businesses beyond traditional manufacturing can benefit from attending and building long-term partnerships. Registration for the event at Motor City Casino is available at Supplier Matchmaking Expo Registration https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2026-supplier-matchmaking-expo-tickets-1986269266846?aff=oddtdtcreator&utm_source=chatgpt.com