FAQ

MATCHMAKING

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Matchmaking will be on Tuesday, June 10, 2025, from 1:15pm-4:45pm. 

  • Yes, please opt-in or submit information by May 23, 2025.

  • No, the National 8(a) Association will be pre-matching all meetings on behalf of each company. 

  • Based on Buyers' requirements, the National 8(a) Association will match Suppliers based on the capabilities provided in their company's registration. 

  • Matchmaking schedules will be sent out one week prior to the conference.

  • Only one schedule of meetings is provided per company and more than one person from the company may attend the appointment(s).

  • Each meeting is 10 minutes in length. 

  • No, just be sure to arrive at the matchmaking area at least 5 minutes prior to your appointment time.

  • Additional meetings will be offered at the Conference through an "open-call" process. You will need to wait in the "open-call" queue and listen for an announcement to know which Buyer is available.

  • Please email matchmaking@national8aassocation.org or visit the Matchmaking Info Desk at the conference.

  • Your company's capabilities did not align with the interests or current needs of the attending buyers or there were no available appointments. Please email matchmaking@national8aassociation.org 

  • Please email matchmaking@national8aassociation.org to edit your registration.

    • Suppliers registering for the conference after May 24, 2025 can email matchmaking@national8aassociation.org prior to the conference. We will be assigning matchmaking meetings on-site at the conference at the Matchmaking Info Desk and through "open-call" during Matchmaking hours. 

    • On-Site Scheduled Meetings: To be considered for these meetings, please submit matchmaking related information by May 24, 2025, and visit us at the Matchmaking Info Desk on Monday, June 9, 2025 from 12:00pm-4:00pm and Tuesday, June 10, 2025 from 8:00am-11:00am to schedule your appointments. 

    • "Open-Call" Meetings: Occur 2 minutes after each matchmaking meeting start times. If a supplier does not show up for their pre-scheduled meeting or the buyer has availability, we look to the "open-call" area to match a supplier with a buyer who is available. 

  • Bring plenty of business cards, capability statements, and any marketing materials to provide to the Buyers.