FAQ
Questions, answered plainly.
Everything we get asked about visiting, exhibiting, how the model works and what happens in the building. If your question isn't here, ask us.
Visiting
Visiting
Can I buy something on the floor?
No. Nothing is sold or bought at SFbei. You leave with catalogs, cards, spec sheets, sometimes a sample — and an introduction. The transaction happens directly between you and the supplier.
Does it cost anything to visit?
No. Builders never pay SFbei anything: no membership, no day pass, no per-introduction fee. Suppliers pay for placement and that funds the building.
Do I need an appointment?
No. Pre-register once and pass the screening; after that you walk in during opening hours as often as you like.
What does the screening involve?
A short form and a look at your company, lab or project. We are checking that you build something, not judging what. Most registrations are approved the same week.
Can I bring my team?
Yes — register each person so we know who is coming. For larger groups or a structured tour, ask us and we will schedule it.
Where exactly is it?
1070 Bryant Street, San Francisco, CA 94103 — between 9th and 10th in SoMa. Directions here.
Exhibiting
Exhibiting
What does a display cost?
A flat annual fee based on tier and floor position, quoted when your application is accepted. No commission, no per-lead charge, no revenue share. Founding-cohort exhibitors keep their rate for three years.
Do we have to send staff to San Francisco?
No. Every display is staffed by SFbei. Our team is trained on your catalog and introduces serious buyers to your own named contacts.
Who can exhibit?
Manufacturers and authorised distributors of components used in robotics, AI hardware, automation, medical devices, mobility and industrial supply — anywhere in the world. Contract manufacturers and process suppliers too.
What do you need from us to apply?
A product catalog, named sales and engineering contacts with time zone and languages, and a company bio covering what you make, where, capacity, certifications and MOQ posture.
What is the US address actually for?
A real, usable business address at 1070 Bryant for correspondence and samples, with mail forwarding. It is not a registered-agent service and does not by itself form a US entity.
What if our category is already full?
We cap directly competing displays per aisle so comparison stays useful. If your category is at capacity we will say so and offer the waiting list rather than take your money.
How SFbei works
How SFbei works
Does SFbei take a commission?
No. We are not in your deal and don't want to be. The only thing a supplier can buy from us is floor space and the services attached to it.
Are you a distributor or a marketplace?
Neither. We hold no stock, take no orders, set no prices and never become a party to your transaction. SFbei is a discovery layer.
Is this only for Chinese suppliers?
No. Chinese manufacturers are a large share of world component supply and will be well represented, but the floor is open to suppliers anywhere — including US and European manufacturers who want a Bay Area shopfront without opening an office. More on the Huaqiangbei comparison.
How do you vet suppliers?
Every applicant tells us where products are actually manufactured, under which certifications, with what capacity. We decline applicants who cannot document provenance. It is the strictest part of our process.
What happens if a supplier misbehaves?
Misrepresenting provenance, certifications or capability is grounds for removal from the floor without refund. Our neutrality is only worth something if it has teeth.
The building & events
The building & events
When do you open?
Spring 2027. Registered builders get access ahead of the public launch. See the planned calendar.
What is on each floor?
Components and the sample library on one, robotics and automation with powered demo bays on two, meetings, materials and the roof deck on three. Full tour here.
Do events cost anything?
No. Free for registered builders, included in placement for exhibiting suppliers.
Can we host our own event there?
The roof deck and third-floor event space are available to exhibiting suppliers and, case by case, to others in the hardware community. Ask us.
Is the building accessible?
The ground floor and lift are step-free with accessible facilities on every level. Tell us in advance if you need anything specific and we will arrange it.
Still curious?
Ask us
directly.
A person reads every message and answers within about two business days.