Milwaukee host committee launches vendor directory for 2024 RNC

The countdown clock is running to the 2024 Republican National Convention as Milwaukee's host committee continues to ramp up operations.

The latest initiative: Thursday's launch of a Vendor Directory to help local businesses connect with organizations and others headed to Milwaukee for the big political show that runs July 15-18.

Groups needing everything from contractors to decorators, event planners to electricians, can find local firms on the online site. The businesses are partnering with the local host committee and the directory provides what is billed as a "one-stop shop."

The directory builds on the local committee's vendor portal that saw more than 1,500 businesses sign up, as well as a partner fair that was held on conjunction with August's Republican presidential debate.

Some 650 businesses are included in the initial guide and more will be added over the coming months. Around 25% of the businesses are considered diverse.

"This is something people can use as a resource as they're planning for the convention," said Alison Prange, the host committee's chief operating officer. "People are starting to come to town to make plans."

Business is expected to accelerate early next year, especially after the Republican National Committee officially assigns state delegations to area hotels. Once that happens, delegations and other groups can put together plans for events surrounding the convention.

Last month, the RNC's Committee on Arrangements launched a convention venue guide to help event planners navigate available spaces in the area.

"I think the expectation is this will be Christmas in July," said Lori Phillips of Milwaukee-based Lafayette Papers, which specializes in custom invitations and stationery. "I think the whole city will benefit greatly."

Phillips said convention organizers have "made the effort to support local businesses."

"There are a lot of requests for quotes for things needed for the convention," she said. "They're going to the folks in the directory."

Phillips said "supporting local business is key to Milwaukee. That is what makes it unique. The RNC is a chance to show thousands of people these local businesses and what sets Milwaukee apart."

Michael Jurken, president of Waukesha-based Majic Productions, a sound, video and lighting production company, said the host committee has worked to drive business opportunities to local firms.

"A lot of the companies and businesses coming here may not have experienced Milwaukee," he said. "Having a resource like that for the larger organizations will be invaluable to find a local vendor."

The buildup to the convention will get a boost later this month during a media walk-through of the main venues, Fiserv Forum, the Baird Center and UW-Milwaukee Panther Arena. This is when media planning begins in earnest for the four-day event where Republicans will nominate their national ticket.

A push for volunteers will take place early next year. Registration is already underway. Some 700 people have signed up for volunteer positions with the local host committee.