By Emily Gac

During the event’s Supply Chain Exchange on June 2, buyers became the exhibitors, creating a unique opportunity for manufacturers, service providers and entrepreneurs to learn exactly what growing semiconductor companies need from their supply chains.

Organized by the University at Buffalo School of Management’s Center for Supply Chain Analytics as an activity of the NY SMART I-Corridor Tech Hub’s Supply Chain Activation Network, the Exchange brought a practical focus to the two-day summit, which attracted more than 350 industry leaders, researchers and economic development partners from across Upstate New York.

The reverse trade show connected suppliers directly with organizations seeking new partners. Instead of asking, “What do you make?” attendees were encouraged to ask, “What are you looking for?”

GlobalFoundries, Edwards Vacuum, Universal Instruments, Dimar Manufacturing, Sealing Devices, Progressive Machine and Design, Shaker Logistics, Voss Manufacturing and other companies shared their purchasing needs and met one-on-one with potential suppliers. Opportunities ranged from precision machining and sheet metal fabrication to logistics services, automation systems, industrial controls and specialized manufacturing components.

The format gave suppliers a clearer view of where opportunities exist across the semiconductor ecosystem. Rather than navigating a maze of introductions, participants could hear directly from buyers about current sourcing needs, supplier requirements and future growth plans.

The Supply Chain Exchange reflects the Center for Supply Chain Analytics’ key role as a convener of industry, research, and workforce partners. As semiconductor investment continues to accelerate across the region, creating stronger connections between buyers and suppliers will be essential to building a resilient domestic supply chain.