Dems’ convention committee opens Philly office, seeks minority vendors

The Democratic National Convention is coming to Philadelphia next summer, and organizers are seeking local businesses to provide goods and services.

The Rev. Leah Daughtry, CEO of the 2016 Democratic National Convention Committee, said the committee expects to spend about $50 million in Philadelphia. Organizers want  35 percent of that to go businesses owned by women, minorities, veterans and LGBT people.

“We are thrilled to be here,” she said Thursday during a nerws conference. “It is our goal … to make this convention one of the most inclusive, the most technology advanced conventions in history.  We are committing ourselves to doing outreach to all levels to engage all parts of the Philadelphia community.”

Mayor Michael Nutter said restaurants and other businesses that did not do so well during the papal visit will be happy during the convention, set for July 25 through 28.

“Folks are going to have a good time, and they will make up for what they missed a couple weeks ago,” Nutter said.

About 50,000 people are expected to visit Philadelphia during the convention.