When people think about equitable sourcing, supplier diversity, or supplier inclusion, their first thought is often the minority owned businesses themselves – the innovators who bring resilience, creativity, and fresh solutions to our economy. That recognition is well deserved. Yet, behind every successful partnership between a corporation and a minority business enterprise (MBE), there is another critical figure whose work too often goes unnoticed: the corporate champions who lead supplier inclusion efforts.

The Bridge-Builders

At NMSDC, we know firsthand how vital these professionals are. They are the bridge-builders – navigating complex organizations, advocating for systemic change, and ensuring MBEs have a fair chance to compete. Their work not only strengthens the bottom line of their companies but also drives economic equity and generational wealth in communities across the country.

Navigating Complexity

Supplier inclusion leaders operate within some of the largest and most complex companies in the world. Their role demands mastery of procurement processes, compliance standards, and corporate priorities. They must prepare MBEs to meet rigorous requirements while also persuading internal stakeholders of the business value in broadening their supplier base.

This is no small task. Often, they must challenge entrenched practices, making the case that inclusive sourcing is not charity or “checking a box” – it’s smart business. The data proves it:

• 133% greater ROI: Organizations that focus heavily on supplier inclusion generate a 133% higher return on procurement investments (The Hackett Group, 2006).
• Greater innovation: A McKinsey study found that companies with diverse suppliers are more innovative and better able to adapt to shifting market demands (McKinsey & Company, 2020).
• Lower costs: Research by Boston Consulting Group shows that diverse supply chains can reduce costs by up to 8%, thanks to increased competition and flexibility (Boston Consulting Group, 2018).

These professionals translate insights like these into action – turning principles into corporate policies that open doors for underrepresented businesses.

Advocates for Equity

But their impact goes far beyond procurement. Supplier inclusion professionals are advocates for equity. They advance the principle that economic opportunity should not be confined to a select few but must reflect the richness of our nation. They know that when MBEs succeed, jobs are created, unemployment falls, communities stabilize, and the national economy grows stronger.

In many companies, these champions work with limited resources and little recognition – sometimes as teams of one, carrying responsibilities that should rest with entire departments. And yet they press on, because they understand the stakes: every new contract with an MBE represents progress toward closing the racial wealth gap in America.

Partners in NMSDC’s Mission

At NMSDC, we see these professionals as indispensable partners. They are the ones who help translate our vision into measurable results inside corporate America. When they succeed in creating opportunities for MBEs, we all succeed.

That’s why we are committed to supporting them – through data-driven insights, professional development, and forums for sharing best practices. Together, we create the conditions that allow MBEs to scale, thrive, and contribute meaningfully to the U.S. economy.

Celebrating Their Role

As we continue to build a more inclusive economy, we must celebrate these corporate champions. They may not always stand in the spotlight, but their impact is undeniable. They open doors that might otherwise remain closed. They ensure supply chains reflect the diversity of the world we live in. And in doing so, they help build a future where prosperity is shared more equitably.

To every supplier inclusion leader working tirelessly inside your company: NMSDC sees you, values you, and stands with you. Your work is indispensable – not only to the MBEs you support, but to the health and competitiveness of the entire economy.

The road ahead will not be without challenges. But with committed champions, strong partnerships, and an unwavering focus on economic equity, we can and will build an economy that works for all.

Join Us in Miami

We look forward to celebrating these unsung heroes of supplier inclusion at the 2025 NMSDC Annual Conference and Exchange, Florida, November 2–5, 2025 – where we’ll honor their leadership, share best practices, and continue advancing our collective mission to build an economy that works for everyone.