How to Prepare for RES 2027 Las Vegas: Native Business Checklist

RES 2027 runs March 8–11, 2027 at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas, and the businesses that get the most from a large conference usually start preparing well before they arrive. This checklist is built around the official Reservation Economic Summit networking, trade show and matchmaking tools so Native-owned and Indigenous businesses can arrive with a plan.

RES 2027 Business Preparation Checklist

1. Register and book travel early.
2. Define the three outcomes you want from RES.
3. Create a one-page capability statement.
4. Identify target buyers, partners and Tribal enterprises.
5. Register for Buy Native matchmaking if eligible.
6. Use the attendee meeting tools when they become available.
7. Prepare a 30-second explanation of what your business does.
8. Bring a simple way to capture and organize contacts.
9. Schedule follow-up time before leaving for Las Vegas.

1. Start With a Specific RES Goal

“Networking” is too broad. Decide whether your priority is procurement, partnerships, customers, financing, learning, recruiting, visibility or meeting specific organizations. A short target list makes a conference with thousands of attendees easier to navigate.

2. Build a Capability Statement

For procurement conversations, prepare a concise document explaining your services or products, differentiators, service area, relevant experience, certifications when applicable and clear contact information. Make it easy for a buyer to understand what problem you solve.

3. Prepare for Buy Native Matchmaking

NCAIED’s Buy Native Business Matchmaking program is available to registered RES buyers and sellers. It can connect qualified American Indian-owned businesses with purchasing officials, prime contractors, government buyers and private-sector corporations in scheduled one-on-one meetings. Registration is required but does not guarantee a meeting.

Read our RES 2027 Buy Native matchmaking guide for a deeper preparation checklist.

4. Use RES Networking Before You Arrive

NCAIED says registered attendees will be able to use the ShoApp conference app about one month before RES to search for attendees and request one-on-one meetings. That creates an opportunity to build part of your calendar before arriving in Las Vegas.

5. Know the Trade Show

The RES Trade Show runs March 8–10, 2027. NCAIED describes it as a Native business marketplace built for face-to-face conversations between businesses, Tribal leaders and industry partners. If exhibiting, build your booth around one clear business outcome rather than trying to communicate everything your organization does.

6. Build a Follow-Up System

Create simple categories such as buyer, partner, prospect, media, supplier and follow-up later. Add notes immediately after meaningful meetings. Reserve time during the first week after RES for personalized follow-up while conversations are still fresh.

Canadian Indigenous Businesses at RES

RES attracts attendees from both the United States and Canada. Cross-border companies should be especially clear about where they can deliver, how contracting works for their business and which partnerships they are seeking.

Start With the Main RES Guide

For dates, venue, registration, hotels, Native Art Market and general conference information, see our complete RES 2027 Las Vegas guide.

Sources

• RES 2027 official website
• Buy Native Business Matchmaking
• RES Peer Meetings
• RES Trade Show