The National Business League

Founded by Dr. Booker T. Washington – August 23, 1900

NATIONAL BLACK SUPPLIER
DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM

Presenting Sponsor

NBSDP Class 2023
NBSDP Class 2022
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FORTUNE 500 PARTNERS

National Black Supplier Development Program (NBSDP)

Problem: The COVID-19 pandemic and economic shutdowns have disproportionately impacted Black Business Enterprises (BBEs) across the country, resulting in a significant reduction rate of approximately 40%. The racial unrest and global Black Lives Matter movement have highlighted the need for Black racial equity and inclusion in the marketplace. To address these challenges, the National Business League (NBL) launched the National Black Supplier Development Program (NBSDP) in 2021 as a solution-oriented response.

Founding Sponsors: Stellantis and MPS Group were the initial founding sponsors, committing to support the NBSDP for three years. They have provided over $1 million in both financial and in-kind resources to help build capacity, scope, and scale of the program. The NBSDP aims to ensure Black suppliers have equal opportunities with public, private, and federal government contracting and procurement.

Expansion: Due to the tremendous success in its first year, the NBSDP attracted further support from renowned Fortune 500 companies in the second year. Cummins, DTE Energy, Ford Motor Company, General Motors, Lear, Magna, and Toyota joined the program, significantly expanding its reach.

Achievements: The NBSDP has achieved historic and monumental success, having awarded over $100 million in contracts to Black suppliers who participated in the program.

Black Business Enterprises’ Situation: Out of more than 3.2 million Black businesses in the country, 90% of these enterprises consist of only 1-5 employees. Unfortunately, less than 2% are certified and equipped to do business with Fortune 500-1000 companies or engage in public, private sector, and federal government contracting and procurement. This marginalization leaves millions of Black Business Enterprises (BBEs) isolated, disenfranchised, and ill-prepared to compete in the marketplace.

Vision: To increase capacity, scale, and revenue, creating economic parity for Black Business Enterprises across all industries and sectors in the global marketplace.

Mission: To serve as a Black Business Enterprise development pipeline for B2B2C, utilizing B2B training eco-systems to measure equitable growth opportunities within the supply chain.

Purpose: To introduce a B2D ecosystem to the black supplier community and the corporate procurement community.

Core Competencies:

Develop:

  • Facilitate new business capabilities in companies through B2D eco training systems focused on operational excellence, maximized capacity, scalability, and financial stability.

Diversify:

  • Support growth opportunities by identifying areas for suppliers to add capabilities, expand product offerings, and find strategic partners.

Connect:

  • Provide platforms for black suppliers to meet potential customers through networking, matchmaker platforms, and educational programs.

Advocate:

  • Speak on behalf of black suppliers to corporations, communities, and government agencies.
  • Set up scorecards to establish accountability within the procurement organizations/process.
  • Be the voice in the room, advocating for equitable opportunities for Black suppliers.

Now Accepting Applications

Important Dates:

  • Application Deadline: August 18, 2023 (midnight EST)
  • Virtual Interviews with Finalists: August 14th – August 28th, 2023
  • Announcement of Selected Companies: August 31, 2023
  • Orientation for Selected Companies: September 7th – September 8th, 2023
Important: Read application guidelines before applying.
What: The program develops Black businesses for future contracting and procurement opportunities and success in a post-pandemic economy.
When: The NBL Institute is from August 2023 – December 2023. Graduation in February 2024
Where: Virtual Program
How: Requirements
  • At-least 51% Black Ownership
  • Participate in 4 Month Program
  • CEO Leadership Commitment
  • Interested in Contracting and Procurement Opportunities
  • Available to Fly-In for Kick-Off

Contact:

For any inquiries or assistance, please contact:

Dr. Forrest Carter, Ph.D.
National Director
National Black Supplier Program

The National Business League
Founded by Booker T. Washington (August 23, 1900)
Celebrating 123 Years of Legacy

National Headquarter Office
104 South Elm Street, Suite 1900
Tuskegee, Alabama 36083
(c) (517) 974-8741
(e) fcarter@nationalbusinessleague.org
(w) www.nationalbusinessleague.org

Regional Offices: Atlanta, GA | Detroit, MI | Los Angeles, CA | Washington, DC | Cape Town, SA