The Metropolitan Pier and Exposition Authority, also known as MPEA, is a municipal corporation created by the Illinois General Assembly. It promotes, operates and maintains fairs, expositions, meetings and conventions in the Chicago metropolitan area. The authority has a purchasing department that issues bid requests for qualifications and proposals. It is also responsible for the recreational, cultural and commercial development of Navy Pier. The Metropolitan Pier and Exposition Authority owns and operates McCormick Place, which is one of the largest convention centers in the United States. It has received Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design certification. The authority additionally offers online vendor registration forms.