Diversifying our supply chain has economically empowered diverse businesses we work with. Our value of ethical, sustainably sourcing products and services inspired the launch of our supplier diversity initiative back in 1995.
What is supplier diversity?
Supplier diversity is our strategy of engaging diverse-owned businesses within our supply chain, which encourages innovation and sustainability, and promotes economic empowerment.
Our diverse suppliers include:
- Disabled-owned businesses
- LGBTQ-owned businesses
- Minority-owned businesses
- Small/local businesses
- Veteran- and service-disabled-owned businesses
- Woman-owned businesses
- Other underserved businesses
Our suppliers’ success stories
Our suppliers have added real value to our organization. Suppliers able to grow and expand their businesses support a healthy economy and thriving communities through job growth, expanded tax base, generational wealth and societal investment. Arizona native Christine Gonzales, owner of Avant Consulting Solutions, noted after working with SRP, “This gave us a voice and the ability to prove that there are diverse organizations that can add value and benefit companies like SRP.” Avant Consulting Solutions supported the implementation of our Customer Information System project.
Mike Obbema, President of Arizona-based KRUE Industrial, shares a similar story of growth and opportunity through SRP’s supplier diversity initiative. Obbema attributes the Supplier Diversity team’s dedication to connecting suppliers with the right contacts within SRP for opening doors for his small business.
“They don’t let good news sit under a bush. Other plant managers and team members are now being told about positive things we did at Desert Basin, which then goes to Kyrene and Santan, and next thing you know, the first call on a major project where they need a partner is now to us,” said Obbema.
Why diversity matters
Diverse businesses can struggle getting a foothold establishing business relationships and cementing their reputation as viable and valued suppliers, they often face challenges with resource constraints and access to capital. We believe diverse businesses enhance innovation and competitiveness, strengthen community ties, and promote a healthy inclusive economy.
“By championing small and diverse local businesses, we are not only fostering economic growth but also contributing to a resilient and vibrant community for the future.”
– Erika Castro, Supplier Diversity Manager, SRP