Last month, the University of Pennsylvania hosted its second annual supplier diversity summit in an effort to connect with small and diverse suppliers. The month of May also saw Princeton University host a similar gathering for supplier diversity expansion. The objective of the Penn Supplier Diversity Forum & Expo was to raise awareness for opportunities with the institution involving supplier diversity and focusing on innovation and inclusion.
According to Penn Today, “more than 200 local LGBTQ, women, and minority-owned businesses, Penn buyers, and small business development agencies and organizations attended the morning panel discussion, with many more in attendance at the afternoon Expo.”
The University of Pennsylvania accounts for 53,000 jobs within the region, with an annual regional purchasing impact of more than $500 million. “In West Philadelphia alone Penn spent $135 million with community based businesses just last year.”
If you are a supplier looking to connect with the university, check out the Penn Purchasing Services.
