“Taking the Pulse of Procurement Professionals: The State of Supplier Diversity in Higher Education”

Third report issued by the Lab for Inclusive Entrepreneurship, focuses on buyer perspectives.

by Natalie Bowers

The Lab for Inclusive Entrepreneurship has published its third major research report, “Taking the Pulse of Procurement Professionals: The State of Supplier Diversity in Higher Education.” This study provides valuable insights into the current landscape of supplier diversity in higher education institutions across the United States.  

The research highlights the significant gap between the commitment to supplier diversity and its actual implementation. While many institutions express strong support for diverse suppliers, the operationalization of this commitment often falls short. Through a detailed survey of 101 procurement professionals and subsequent focus groups, we have identified key themes that underscore the challenges and opportunities in this critical area.  

Key Findings 

Commitment vs. Implementation. A significant number of respondents indicated a disparity between their institution’s stated commitment to supplier diversity and the practical steps taken to achieve it.  

Obstacles. Limited resources, complex procurement processes, and difficulty in identifying qualified diverse suppliers are major barriers.  

Strategic Initiatives. Some institutions are making notable progress by adopting strategic and tactical approaches to enhance supplier diversity.  

Training Opportunities. There is a clear need for more comprehensive training and awareness programs for procurement staff and other stakeholders.  

Capacity Building. Positive experiences with diverse suppliers highlight the potential for these suppliers to compete more effectively with the right support and opportunities.  

The report offers actionable strategies to bridge the gap between policy and practice, overcome obstacles, and build effective supplier diversity programs. It also emphasizes the importance of continuous education and training to foster an inclusive procurement environment.  

We invite you to read the full report to explore the detailed findings and recommendations. Together, we can advance supplier diversity in higher education, driving innovation, competition, and economic sustainability.  

Access the full report.
  

About the Lab

The Northeastern Lab for Inclusive Entrepreneurship is dedicated to supporting small businesses in socially and economically disadvantaged communities through technical and managerial assistance. Our mission is to promote inclusive and equitable innovation and entrepreneurship.