State Agencies and Private Sector Establish Supplier Diversity Advisory Committee

A diverse group of 20 business and diversity experts met for the first time in Olympia on October 10, 2008 to launch an Advisory Committee on Supplier Diversity. The group will advise the Office of Minority & Women’s Business Enterprises (OMWBE) Director Cynthia Cooper on supplier diversity and inclusion.

Director Cooper said she is excited by the level of enthusiasm this committee has shown and looks forward to recommendations that will increase the inclusion of small businesses in purchases made by the State, local governments and education communities.

The diverse group of experts will act as advisors to the Director of OMWBE on supplier diversity and inclusion and expects to provide a final report and recommendations to Director Cooper within a year.

The State Office of Minority & Women’s Business Enterprises (OMWBE) hosted the formation of this group. Senator Rosa Franklin, 29th District Tacoma, Senate president pro tem welcomed the group and discussed the importance of its mission.

The owners of General Microsystems, Pacific Communications Consultants Inc. and Excel Gloves & Safety Supplies, Inc. participated.

Eight non-profits and higher education representatives include The Filipino Chamber of Commerce, The Association of Hispanic Chambers, the National Association of Women, Tabor 100, The William Factory Small Business Incubator, Shoreline Community College, The University of Washington, and the A. Philip Randolph Institute, Tacoma Chapter.

Members from local and state government agencies participating include: The State Office of Financial Management, the Washington State Department of Transportation, the Department of Financial Institutions, the State Office of Labor & Industries, the Governor’s Office, the Commission on Hispanic Affairs, and King County Business Relations and Economic Development.

Leadership discussion groups were established in 7 areas: Public Policy, Government Accountability Communication, Value and benefit of OMWBE and its programs, Barriers to Inclusion, Impact of Economy on Small Business, The Green Economy.

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