Construction firms in Manchester are being invited to a free Meet the Buyer event to find out about millions of pounds' worth of work opportunities.

Constructionline, the government-owned database of contractors, is giving Manchester-based small and medium-sized companies the opportunity to meet face to face with key procurement decision makers, to learn about winning a place on major work programmes in the region.

More than 25 construction buyers will be attending the event, held at the Etihad Stadium on 30 January, to discuss upcoming work programmes. One of the major schemes being discussed comes from social housing procurement consortium Procurement For All, which will be recruiting contractors – including SMEs – to support £120 million housing projects for the installation of doors and windows, as well as kitchens, bathrooms and central heating.

In addition to meeting prospective buyers, suppliers will be able to attend seminars on finding and securing work. Speakers include Kier Group, Capita Property and Infrastructure, McLaughlin & Harvey and Procurement For All.

“In our experience, business and local councils want to give work to SMEs in their area, and in turn contractors are eager to win these tenders, but it’s often challenging for each to gain access to one another,” said Michael Waddington, client relationship manager at Constructionline.

“This event is designed to offer local construction companies some valuable introductions, as well as helping them to learn about upcoming work opportunities, and how they can best win business from buyers on their doorstep.”

The event will run from 8:30am until 3pm and suppliers do not have to be a Constructionline member to attend. For more information or to register interest, go to www.constructionline.co.uk/events.