Outreach and Development

The OSSP staff will actively engage in outreach efforts to WMBE-certified businesses. The staff will partner with advocacy organizations that promote WMBE and encourage buying opportunities between the University and WMBE suppliers, such as: Virginia Department of Small Business and Supplier Diversity, Carolinas-Virginia Minority Supplier Development Council, Metropolitan Business League, National Association of Women Business Owners, Virginia Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, and Virginia Asian Chamber of Commerce.

To promote business opportunities with the University, key representatives of these organizations will be notified of buying opportunities at the University and offered a chance to recommend WMBE suppliers who should be solicited for bids. In addition, any bidding opportunities of $25,000 or higher will be listed on the University's website.

The University also will participate in and host supplier diversity programs and WMBE supplier showcases. This will include the development and implementation of diverse supplier trade shows, as well as a “Doing Business with UR” program. These events will rotate annually and include presentations about the requirements to do business with the University; opportunities for suppliers to meet one-on-one with University buyers and prime contractors; and chances for faculty and staff to meet with University suppliers.

To encourage further development, the University will mentor suppliers by recommending WMBE certification, and providing feedback on proposal responses that are not awarded to the diverse supplier.