DES’ Procurement Equity and Inclusion Program reached out to several business organizations that had never attended Alliance Northwest to help connect small, diverse, and veteran-owned businesses with government buyers at this year’s event, held in March. 

Young Brown, President of the Greater Seattle Korean Association, said, “We have never been invited to opportunities like this even though we have been in the community for more than 50 years. We are excited to introduce resources we’ve learned today with our association members.” 

Emmanuel G.V Dolo, Executive Director of the African Chamber of Commerce, said, “Thanks so much for inviting us to the event. This is our first-time participating event like this, and it was an eye-opening experience. We will be introducing the resources with our chamber members.” 

DES’ new supplier diversity procurement policy requires state agencies to take specific steps to increase the number of goods and services contracts with small, diverse and veteran-owned businesses. That means more state agencies will be looking for Washington small businesses and businesses that are certified women- and minority- or veteran-owned.