Supplier Diversity Program
The University of Richmond has a long history of support for local businesses, and has prioritized promotion of supplier diversity in our day-to-day purchasing needs. This focus, spearheaded by the Office of Procurement, will enhance the University's relationships with woman and minority-owned businesses (WMBE) by actively identifying, soliciting, and contracting with diverse businesses.
Procurement staff will communicate and educate the University community on supplier diversity goals and best practices. In addition, outreach efforts with WMBE-certified businesses, will include participation in local events and collaborating with advocacy groups such as the Metropolitan Business League, Virginia Asian Chamber of Commerce, Carolina Virginia Supplier Develpment Council (CVMSDC) and the Virginia Department of Small Business & Supplier Diversity (VA DSBSD).
General Goals and Initiatives
The Office of Procurement supports woman and minority-owned businesses (WMBE) to ensure that diverse suppliers have full opportunity to compete for the University’s business. In order to accomplish these initiatives of the University’s Supplier Diversity Program, Procurement will work with other key departments in the procurement process to:
- Include diverse suppliers in our solicitation processes.
- Identify and qualify local, regional, and national WMBE suppliers that can deliver the best value and highest quality products and services at a competitive price
- Proactively look for ways to integrate diverse suppliers into our sourcing opportunities