Digital buyer journeys
What digital buyer journeys means for buyers and exhibitors in this sector.
Event overview
Overview
The Great Lakes Damage Prevention Conference & Expo returns as a premier gathering dedicated to protecting critical infrastructure and enhancing public safety.
Expect two full days of targeted educational sessions, an expanded Expo Hall with interactive exhibits, and extensive networking opportunities.
Continuing education credits will be available for qualifying sessions.
TL;DR
- 1Dates and Venue: 10-12 February 2027 at DeVos Place, Grand Rapids, Michigan.
- 2Organiser and Focus: Hosted by MISS DIG 811, the Great Lakes 811 Expo concentrates on damage prevention, safe excavation and buried-asset locating across Great Lakes states.
- 3Who Attends: Utility locators, excavators, infrastructure owners, public works officials and 811 software, hydrovac and locating-equipment suppliers.
- 4Entry: Registration is open for general attendees and exhibitors through the official event site, with separate paths for visitors and vendors.
- 5Location: Great Lakes Damage Prevention Conference & Expo takes place in Grand Rapids, USA. Venue: DeVos Place. Scheduled 2027-02-10 to 2027-02-12.
Why visit
Attendees will benefit from networking with industry peers, gaining insights from educational sessions, and exploring innovative solutions in damage prevention. Dates and Venue: Great Lakes Damage Prevention Conference & Expo runs February 10-12, 2027 at DeVos Place, Grand Rapids, MI. Scale and Focus: This event is dedicated to damage prevention, featuring educational sessions and networking opportunities. Buyer Authority: Attendees include excavators, infrastructure.
Why exhibit
Meet qualified buyers and partners including 811 / one-call notification and ticket management software vendors, Locating equipment makers (electromagnetic locators, ground-penetrating radar), Hydrovac and vacuum excavation equipment suppliers. Buyer Authority: Attendees include excavators, infrastructure leaders, public officials, and utility professionals. Entry: Registration is open for general attendees and exhibitors through the official event site, with separate paths.
Attendees, exhibitors & solutions
Who this event is for
Visitor profile
Typical attendee groups you can expect to meet.
Utility damage prevention and 811 one-call centre managers
Contract locator technicians and locating service company owners
Excavation and trenching contractors working around buried utilities
Gas, electric, water and telecom distribution asset owners
Pipeline operators and midstream integrity teams
Municipal and state public works and right-of-way officials
Hydrovac and vacuum excavation equipment operators
Safety, training and compliance staff in underground construction
Exhibitor profile
Main supplier and exhibitor segments present at the show.
811 / one-call notification and ticket management software vendors
Locating equipment makers (electromagnetic locators, ground-penetrating radar)
Hydrovac and vacuum excavation equipment suppliers
Trenching, shoring and excavation safety equipment vendors
Pipeline and utility asset protection and marking product companies
Damage prevention training providers and certification bodies
Mapping, GIS and buried-asset data platforms
Industry associations and regional 811 centres promoting best practice
Product categories
Key solution areas showcased across the event.
Underground utility locating equipment and ground-penetrating radar
811 one-call centre software and electronic ticket management
Hydrovac and vacuum excavation units and accessories
Utility marking paint, flags and tracing wire
Trench shoring and excavation safety equipment
Pipeline integrity, corrosion and cross-bore protection products
GIS mapping and buried asset data platforms
Damage prevention training, certification and consulting services
Location & Facilities
Venue
DeVos Place
303 Monroe Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Facilities
Parking
DeVos Place in Grand Rapids typically provides on-site or adjacent visitor parking during major trade fairs; confirm daily rates, payment methods and hall access on the organiser or venue website before travel.
Food options
On-site catering
On-site diningParking: DeVos Place in Grand Rapids typically provides on-site or adjacent visitor parking during major trade fairs; confirm daily rates, payment methods and hall access on the organiser or venue website before travel.
Gate: Follow organiser signage to the main visitor entrance at DeVos Place for badge collection; allow extra time for security screening during peak morning arrival.
Attend
Entry & tickets
Who runs the show
Organisers
MISS DIG 811
How the last edition performed
Previous edition
Next edition
Not announced yet
Intelligence
Market context
Key market insights, trends, news and related events to help you understand the bigger picture.
Grand Rapids, USA
Why it matters
Attending Great Lakes Damage Prevention Conference & Expo on 2027-02-10 to 2027-02-12 in Grand Rapids lets buyers and specifiers benchmark suppliers, see live demonstrations, and compress months of vendor meetings into one focused trade visit — worthwhile when your category roadmap aligns with the official exhibitor profile.
Industry trends
Key trends shaping this market and its wider industry.
Sustainability in procurement
What sustainability in procurement means for buyers and exhibitors in this sector.
Automation and labour efficiency
What automation and labour efficiency means for buyers and exhibitors in this sector.
Regional supply-chain resilience
What regional supply-chain resilience means for buyers and exhibitors in this sector.
Hybrid engagement models
What hybrid engagement models means for buyers and exhibitors in this sector.
Market news
Latest updates from across the market.
Damage Prevention | Alliance for Innovation and Infrastructure
ReadNew Policy Brief: Enhancing Damage Prevention and Infrastructure ...
ReadDamage Prevention & Safety | Underground Construction
ReadNew Report: Underground Utility Damage Costs America $83.2 Billion a ...
ReadDamage Prevention Archives - Trenchless Technology
ReadUtility Damage Is Rising While Infrastructure Construction Accelerates ...
ReadPlan your trip
Travel & logistics
Local currency · USD
Arrival airports
Choose from the following airports, with convenient access to the event and venue.
Gerald R. Ford International Airport
Primary gateway for the Great Lakes 811 Expo; rental cars, taxis and rideshare pickups are available. Allow extra time in snow
Approx. 15 miles / 24 km southeast of downtown Grand Rapids
to venue
Approx. 20-25 minutes by car
by car
Capital Region International Airport
Alternate regional airport with limited service; a rental car or pre-booked transfer is required
Approx. 60 miles / 97 km east of Grand Rapids
to venue
Approx. 1 hour by car
by car
Kalamazoo/Battle Creek International Airport
Alternate airport with limited flights; useful only if GRR connections are unavailable
Approx. 50 miles / 80 km south of Grand Rapids
to venue
Approx. 50-60 minutes by car
by car
Chicago O'Hare International Airport
Major hub for international connections; most attendees should connect onward to GRR rather than drive
Approx. 150 miles / 240 km southwest of Grand Rapids
to venue
Approx. 2.5-3 hours by car
by car
Hotel tiers
A range of accommodation options near the venue and across key areas.
Airport area - 3-star
Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GRR) corridor, southeast of downtownCaptured examples include Staybridge Suites Grand Rapids - Airport and Holiday Inn Grand Rapids - Airport, both with free cancellation. Convenient for early flights but a drive from DeVos Place. Rates are approximate for a February 2027 stay; confirm live prices.
Downtown - 3-star
Downtown Grand Rapids, walking or short ride to DeVos PlaceBest base for the convention centre; downtown hotels connect to DeVos Place via the skywalk and tunnel system. Captured airport and suburban rates ranged from about USD 118-148; downtown February rates are typically higher. Approximate band, confirm live prices.
East / suburban - 3-star
Grand Rapids East, a short drive from downtownCaptured example: Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Grand Rapids East, MI, with a 4.6 guest rating plus hot tub and pool. Quieter base with parking for drive-in exhibitors. Approximate band; confirm live prices.
Local transport
Get around the city with these convenient transport options.
Rideshare / taxi
Estimated costUSD 35-75 taxi or rideshare to the venue district
Best forGerald R. Ford International Airport (GRR) to DeVos Place
Uber pickup is permitted at GRR and Metro Cab operates airport taxis. The journey is a highway drive into downtown Grand Rapids and can take longer in snow.
The Rapid bus
Estimated costUSD 35-75 taxi or rideshare to the venue district
Best forDowntown Grand Rapids routes near DeVos Place
The Rapid is the local transit operator. Check schedules and the system map for routes terminating near DeVos Place; winter weather can affect frequency.
Walking / skywalk
Estimated costNo fare
Best forDowntown hotels to DeVos Place
Grand Rapids' skywalk and tunnel system links downtown buildings, useful in February snow and cold. Wear footwear with grip for outdoor segments.
Car parking
Estimated costApprox. USD 10-25 per day; confirm event rates
Best forDeVos Place underground ramp and nearby surface lots
Underground parking at DeVos Place plus city venue-access guidance and an event parking map are published by the venue and city. Arrive early on show mornings.
taxi
Estimated costUSD 35-75 taxi or rideshare to the venue district
Best forCapital Region International Airport (LAN) to DeVos Place
Approx. 1 hour by car; Alternate regional airport with limited service; a rental car or pre-booked transfer is required.
taxi
Estimated costUSD 35-75 taxi or rideshare to the venue district
Best forKalamazoo/Battle Creek International Airport (AZO) to DeVos Place
Approx. 50-60 minutes by car; Alternate airport with limited flights; useful only if GRR connections are unavailable.
taxi
Estimated costUSD 35-75 taxi or rideshare to the venue district
Best forChicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) to DeVos Place
Approx. 2.5-3 hours by car; Major hub for international connections; most attendees should connect onward to GRR rather than drive.
Plan your trip
Visa & entry documents
Check the latest visa requirements and entry guidelines before travelling.
Visa not required
ATA Carnet: check with organiser
Weather
February in Grand Rapids, Michigan, sits in the depth of winter: expect freezing temperatures, a high likelihood of snow cover on pavements and roads, and occasional lake-effect snow bands off Lake Michigan. Typical daytime highs run about 28-34 F (-2 to 1 C), with overnight lows around 16-24 F (-9 to -4 C); colder snaps are possible. Lake-effect cloud and snow can reduce visibility quickly, so allow buffer time for road transfers to DeVos Place and check local forecasts before travelling.
Plan for the climate
Check temperatures and pack accordingly
Venue connectivity
US mobile networks (Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile) cover downtown Grand Rapids and DeVos Place well; international visitors should arrange a local prepaid SIM or eSIM or check their roaming plan before arrival. Wi-Fi is typically available at the convention centre and most downtown hotels. Winter storms can occasionally affect regional power and transport, so keep offline copies of tickets and hotel confirmations.
Ride-hailing
Taxis
Public transit
Car rentals
Cultural notes
Useful information to help you have a smooth and respectful visit.
Business dress
Great Lakes utility and construction audiences generally wear business casual or safety-oriented workwear; exhibitor staff often wear branded polo shirts or hi-vis outerwear at the booth.
Tipping
Tipping is standard in US hospitality: 15-20 percent at restaurants and a few dollars per bag or taxi ride.
Local context
Grand Rapids is a West Michigan manufacturing and office city; the 811 call-before-you-dig culture and state damage prevention statutes are central topics at the show. February weather shapes social plans, so confirm restaurant and bar hours before heading out.
Practical guides
Visitor & Exhibitor Essentials
Everything needed to arrive prepared, navigate the event, and make the visit productive.
Flights
Destination: GRR
Book into Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GRR) via connecting hubs such as Chicago O'Hare, Detroit or Atlanta; direct service varies by origin. February weather can cause delays, so build in a buffer day and consider trip insurance. Confirm baggage and change policies before booking.
Visa
International delegates generally need a US B-1 business visitor visa; nationals of Visa Waiver Program countries may travel on an approved ESTA instead.
Estimated cost: Approx. USD 185 application fee; ESTA is a separate smaller fee - confirm current amounts on official US government pages
Processing: Varies by consulate; book the interview early to allow weeks or months before the February 2027 edition
Bring an invitation letter from MISS DIG 811, employer confirmation and proof of return travel. ESTA travel does not replace visa screening for travellers with prior refusals or restricted nationalities.
OfficialTransport
Get to the venue and around the city with these options.
Airport → venue: Primary gateways: Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GRR): Approx. 20-25 minutes by car; Capital Region International Airport (LAN): Approx. 1 hour by car; Kalamazoo/Battle Creek International Airport (AZO): Approx. 50-60 minutes by car; Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD): Approx. 2.5-3 hours by car. Allow road or rail time to DeVos Place; on-site parking is usually available at major exhibition venues.
Hotel → venue: Precinct hotels near DeVos Place: Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GRR) corridor, southeast of downtown: Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GRR) corridor, southeast of downtown; Downtown Grand Rapids, walking or short ride to DeVos Place: Downtown Grand Rapids, walking or short ride to DeVos Place; Grand Rapids East, a short drive from downtown: Grand Rapids East, a short drive from downtown.
Ride-hail: Uber and Lyft serve Grand Rapids and GRR; pickup zones are signed at the airport. Downtown rides between hotels and DeVos Place are short and typically inexpensive, though surge pricing and slower pickups can occur during snow. Confirm the app coverage and payment method before arrival.
Public transit: The Rapid operates the Grand Rapids bus network. Check the system map for routes serving downtown near DeVos Place; single rides are inexpensive (approx. USD 2, confirm current fare). Service frequency may be reduced in winter weather, so allow extra time or keep a rideshare backup.
Parking: DeVos Place has an underground parking ramp and nearby surface lots; daily event parking is typically charged (approx. USD 10-25, confirm rates). The skywalk connects parking and hotels to the venue, which helps in snow. Arrive early on show mornings for the closest spaces.
Weather
Plan and pack for the event climate.
Month: February 2027
Temperature: Typical daytime highs 28-34 F (-2 to 1 C), overnight lows 16-24 F (-9 to -4 C); colder snaps are possible.
Seasonality: Winter season: snow is more likely than rain, with occasional lake-effect snow events off Lake Michigan and short daylight hours. Allow extra transfer time on snow days.
Packing: Pack a heavy winter coat, insulated and waterproof boots with grip soles for snowy pavements, gloves, hat and scarf; layer for heated indoor halls and bring a compact umbrella for wet snow. Allow extra transfer time on snow days and keep electronics charged for weather delays.
Plan your trip
Planning
Best day to visit: Day 2 (mid-show)
Mid-show days at Great Lakes Damage Prevention Conference & Expo usually combine full exhibitor attendance with scheduled B2B meetings, before early pack-down on the final day.
T-1
Confirm registration and badge details for the 10-12 February 2027 Great Lakes 811 Expo through the official event platform before travel.
T-2
Book a downtown Grand Rapids hotel early; February inventory around DeVos Place is limited and many rates are free-cancellation flexible.
T-3
Arrange flights into Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GRR) and pre-plan the airport-to-downtown transfer by rideshare, taxi or rental car.
T-4
Check ESTA or B-1 visa status if travelling from outside the United States and carry an invitation letter or registration confirmation from MISS DIG 811.
T-5
Pack winter footwear with grip, a heavy coat and layers for heated halls and snowy pavements.
T-6
Review the conference programme on locate accuracy, buried asset data and excavation safety to shortlist sessions and booth visits.
T-7
Download The Rapid system map and check which bus routes stop near DeVos Place as a backup to rideshare.
T-8
Plan parking or skywalk routes from your hotel if driving in during snow conditions, and allow extra transfer time on storm days.
Sample visitor itinerary
Route-optimised day
Day 1 · morning
Registration and hall orientation at DeVos Place
Day 2 · core sessions
Supplier meetings and product demos
Day 3 · wrap-up
Final negotiations and follow-up
Networking spots
2Great Lakes Damage Prevention Conference & Expo registration concourse
DeVos Place
Central meeting point before and between hall appointments during show days.
Organiser B2B lounge (if offered)
DeVos Place
Hosted matchmaking and buyer programmes when published by the organiser.
Budget
Costs & budget
Build your working budget
Adjust the inputs below to create a directional event budget.
Estimated budget
Live estimate
- Hotel × 2 nights$230.00
- Per diem × 2$150.00
Estimated total$380.00
This is a directional estimate. Please verify live rates before booking.
Decision
Visit, exhibit, or skip?
Should you go?
Use this quick check to decide whether Great Lakes Damage Prevention Conference & Expo fits your visit, exhibit or skip plan.
QUESTION 1 OF 6
What is your primary role?
Decision matrix
Compare participation options side by side to choose the best fit for your objectives.
visit
Your category focus aligns with the official product themes.
Best for
Buyers, researchers, and delegates evaluating the programme and networking value.
Min. budget
$400.00
Timeline
4-8 weeks before opening day for registration and travel.
Risks
Limited session times published - confirm agenda before booking.
exhibit
You have a clear lead-generation or launch goal for this market.
Best for
Suppliers and brands seeking qualified meetings with the event audience.
Min. budget
$2,500.00
Timeline
3-6 months for stand booking, freight, and marketing prep.
Risks
Booth pricing not published in captured sources - confirm with organiser.
skip
Programme, audience, or commercial goals do not match your plan.
Best for
Teams whose category or region fit is weak this edition.
Timeline
N/A
Risks
No major risks listed.
FAQs & glossary
Answers
Frequently asked
What is the Great Lakes Damage Prevention Conference & Expo?
It is the regional damage prevention event organised by MISS DIG 811, combining a conference programme on safe excavation and buried utility protection with an exhibitor expo at DeVos Place in Grand Rapids, Michigan. The edition covered by this listing runs 10-12 February 2027.
Who attends the Great Lakes Damage Prevention Conference & Expo?
Attendees come from the 811 one-call system, contract locating companies, excavation and trenching contractors, gas, electric, water and telecom utilities, pipeline operators, municipal public works and safety training roles across the Great Lakes region.
Where is the event held?
DeVos Place, the convention centre in downtown Grand Rapids, Michigan, which also hosts DeVos Performance Hall. The venue connects to downtown hotels via the city's skywalk and tunnel system.
How do I register as a visitor or exhibitor?
Registration and exhibitor sign-up for the 2027 edition run through the event platform linked from greatlakes811expo.com, the official show site maintained by MISS DIG 811. Check the site for current rates and deadlines before booking travel.
Which airport should I fly into for Grand Rapids?
Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GRR) is the primary airport serving Grand Rapids and the closest to DeVos Place; larger international connections are often routed through Chicago O'Hare with onward road or rail transfer.
What is the weather like in Grand Rapids in February?
February is deep winter in West Michigan, with daytime temperatures near or below freezing, frequent snow and lake-effect snow bands off Lake Michigan. Bring insulated, waterproof footwear and a heavy coat, and allow extra time for road transfers.
Glossary
- 811
- The national call-before-you-dig phone number in the United States; homeowners and excavators call it to have buried utilities marked before digging.
- One-call centre
- A regional notification centre such as MISS DIG 811 that receives excavation notices and relays them to member utility operators for locating and marking.
- Damage prevention
- The practice of avoiding strikes to buried gas, electric, water, telecom and pipeline assets through notification, locating, marking and safe excavation procedures.
- Hydrovac
- Vacuum excavation using pressurized water to expose buried utilities safely without cutting into them.
- Locator
- A technician who uses electromagnetic locators or ground-penetrating radar to find and mark underground utility lines.
- Cross bore
- An unintended intersection where a newly installed utility line pierces an existing buried pipe or cable, a recurring damage prevention risk.
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Also known as
Alternate names and search phrases for this event.
- Great Lakes Damage Prevention Conference & Expo
- Great Lakes Damage Prevention Conference & Expo 2027
- Great Lakes Damage Prevention Conference & Expo Grand Rapids
- Great Lakes Damage Prevention Conference & Expo Grand Rapids 2027
- Great Lakes Damage Prevention
- Great Lakes Damage Prevention 2027
- Great Lakes Damage Prevention Grand Rapids
- Great Lakes Damage Prevention Grand Rapids 2027
- Conference
- Conference 2027
9 more alternate names hidden
Digital business cards for the show floor
Display a free company card at your booth, or share your professional card on the show floor.