Supplier diversity ensures an open and inclusive competition for contracts during the procurement process, and the use of vendors of different backgrounds fosters a better understanding of a diverse customer base. Over the last decade the number of minority-owned firms in the US has increased 38 per cent. As the number of minority entrepreneurs continues to rise, these business owners have recognized the need for B2B opportunities, and supplier diversity programs that create the fastest path to scale and grow a small business. Porter highlights the history and impact of these programs as sources of business education as well as pipeline development for minority and women entrepreneurs. Finally, readers interested in levelling the playing field in business have a go-to source.
Kathey Porter is a small business strategist and supplier diversity expert with experience spanning nearly two decades in marketing, small business development, supplier diversity and entrepreneurship. Kathey was previously a marketing executive in the multicultural beauty industry working for organizations such as Revlon Professional/Colomer USA and Carson Products Company (acquired by L'Oréal) where she was responsible for new product development, in-market activation (advertising, promotions, sales) and financial management
