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Supplier Diversity

Supplier Diversity

Office of Procurement Diversity

The Office of Procurement Diversity oversees Supplier Diversity at the University of Illinois System.

We are committed to vendor diversification by ensuring that diverse businesses (see definition) are included in the University procurement process. The Supplier Diversity Program provides access to procurement opportunities by creating an equitable and competitive business environment through encouraging campus departments to proactively consider qualified certified businesses owned by minorities, women, persons with disabilities, and veterans for their contracting needs.

The State of Illinois declares that it is the public policy of the State to promote and encourage the continuing economic development of minority, women, and persons with disabilities owned businesses and are provided the opportunity to participate in the State's procurement process as both prime and subcontractors.

The Business Enterprise for Minorities, Women, and Persons with Disabilities Act, "BEP ACT", (30 ILCS 575/) establishes that "not less than 30% of the total dollar amount of State contracts, as defined by the Secretary of the Council and approved by the Council, shall be established as a goal to be awarded to businesses owned by minorities, women, and persons with disabilities."

Through the Veterans Business Program (VBP), (30 ILCS 500/45-57) state agencies and universities are encouraged to spend not less than 3% of the total dollar amount of State contracts with VOSBs and SDVOSBs.

What is a Diverse Business?

Diverse BusinessAt least 51% owned and controlled/operated by a U.S. Citizen and one of the following categories or ethnicities:

  • African American
  • Asian American
  • Hispanic
  • Native American
  • Person with a disability
  • Women
  • Service Disabled Veteran*

*Must be Illinois resident and with a home office in Illinois.

Searching for Diverse Vendors

The following Job Aid video shows a process for searching for Diverse Vendors. 

 

 

 

 

 

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