B2B Matchmaking Appointments Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

 

What is a Matchmaking Event?

Matchmaking events are all about making connections and beginning relationships. A&D suppliers are paired to meet one-on-one with OEMs and Tier-1 Suppliers seeking to do business with specific types of products or services.

What type of companies would benefit from attending?

A&D suppliers based in Southern California that provide materials and services are encouraged to attend. This includes but is not limited to:  advanced and composite materials, bearings, cable and harness, thermoforming, precision machining, design services, metal stamping, hydroforming, casting and forging, cut tooling, hardware/fasteners, electric sensors/coils, additive manufacturing, tubing fabrication, etc.

What type of OEMs and Tier-1 Suppliers will be present?

AMP SoCal is inviting OEMs and Tier-1 Suppliers from throughout the region to participate in the matchmaking appointments.

How are Suppliers paired to meet with the OEMs and Tier-1 Suppliers?

During the online registration process, each Supplier is required to list their top five capabilities that describe the type of services/products they provide. Each OEM and Tier-1 Supplier will enter the type of Suppliers they have a preference to meet with based on their current and upcoming needs. We will strategically assign appointments based on the needs of the OEMs and Tier-1 Suppliers to ensure that Suppliers are compatible. Please note that appointments are scheduled based on the target capabilities sought by the OEMs. There is no guarantee that you will receive appointments with OEMs if your company’s capabilities are not on an OEM’s target list. Appointments will be scheduled in the order registrations are received.

How do the matchmaking appointments work?

Think of it like speed dating for business. Each appointment is 15 minutes, allowing the Supplier an opportunity to introduce their company, highlight their experience and engage in a conversation about how to become a contractor with the OEM or Tier-1 Supplier. If you forward your Capability Statement to [email protected] we will share it with the OEMs/Tier-1 Suppliers that you are matched with in advance of your appointment.

I’m an A&D Supplier, how many appointments can I get scheduled for?

The number of appointments you can get depends on the number of participating OEMs and your company’s capabilities. Please note that appointments are based solely on the needs indicated by the OEMs and Tier-1 Suppliers. If your specific services are not in high demand by the OEMs and Tier-1 Suppliers in attendance there is a possibility that you won’t receive any appointments.

Can I make contact with the OEMs and Tier-1 Suppliers that participate in the matchmaking appointments?

On your registration profile if you check the box giving us permission to share your contact information we will distribute it to all participating OEMs and Tier-1 Suppliers.

When will I know if I have any matchmaking appointments?

We have a rolling deadline to register for matchmaking appointments, but the sooner you register the better. Suppliers will be notified as their appointments are being scheduled.

As a supplier, what should I expect from this event?

When attending a matchmaking event, your goal should not be to leave with a contract in hand. Supplier’s goals should include making a good impression, connecting on a personal level, and scheduling a follow-up phone call or meeting with the OEM or Tier-1 Supplier.

As an OEM or Tier-1 Supplier, what should I expect from this event?

OEMs and Tier-1 Suppliers will receive the advantage of pre-screened appointments with Suppliers that meet their selected criteria based.

 

B2B Matchmaking Success Story

Vinyl Technology was involved in an OEM B2B Matchmaking event hosted by AMP SoCal and Aerofied at AeroDef 2019. This is an opportunity which matches A&D suppliers seeking subcontracting opportunities with OEMs interested in their services. Vinyl Technologies was matched with Emma Stevens from Lockheed Martin. When Vinyl Technology was included on a solicitation, they submitted a successful bid that resulted in a first time purchase order award for development of various components to create one prototype from design for all three variants of the F-35 aircraft. Lockheed Martin is building the F-35 in partnership with Northrop Grumman Corporation. Read the full Vinyl Technology spotlight here!