'Toast to Milwaukee': Vendor kickoff aims to build momentum into 2024 RNC convention

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- On Wednesday, Oct. 18, many of the Milwaukee's partner vendors gathered for a kickoff event designed to build momentum and access leading into the RNC.

In 271 days, the Republican National Convention will take over Fiserv Forum and the Milwaukee area. For four days starting July 15, Milwaukee will be the center of the political world as the Republican Party selects its nominee for president.

Tens of thousands of visitors are expected to infuse hundreds of millions of dollars into the city's economy.

It was a "toast to Milwaukee" Wednesday evening as the RNC joined the host committee to unveil some of the resources available to businesses ahead of the convention.

Russ Klisch is the President of Lakefront Brewery. He predicted, "We'll be the city that does not sleep during the convention."

And there will likely be many sleepless nights leading up to it, too, for thousands of business owners looking to capitalize on huge convention crowds.

More than 1500 Milwaukee vendors have already signed up for an online vendor portal, and about 120 are listed in the official venue guide.

Allison Prange, the Chief Operating Officer of the Milwaukee Host Committee, said it's "To showcase Milwaukee as a place to live, work, and play."

The guide will show each of the visitors what Milwaukee has to offer as they plan their visit.

Klisch said they'll be loaded for bear. He sees an opportunity to rent out his space to groups looking for a breakfast or lunch venue, even a convention afterparty. "They're putting us out in front of everybody. So, anybody who's serious about having a big event is going to be looking at that portal."

While Summer 2024 may seem like a long way away, there are signs things are starting to ramp up. And just as the businesses will soon prepare for the influx of people, so will the security teams.

Soon the US Secret Service and RNC will focus on the community impact.

Elise Dickens, CEO for the RNC's Committee on Arrangements, said, "Whether it's food screening, how road closures or the perimeter might impact egress or things with our staff."

Dickens said Milwaukee is the perfect-sized city for the convention but adds it's more than just a welcoming lakefront.

She said, "I feel like Milwaukee is on the cusp of incredible growth, and our delegates and everyone is really excited to be a part of that."

Hundreds of events will take place all convention week throughout the entire city, not just Fiserv Forum.

50,000 visitors are expected. The arena holds roughly 18,000 people, so at any given time there will likely be more than 30,000 people outside the arena in Milwaukee and the surrounding area.

Dickens said, "We want to give Milwaukee businesses as much exposure as possible."

She then told the crowd, "Cheers to you. Thank you for your partnership, and let's have a fantastic convention."