Dalhousie University is expanding its procurement practices with a new Supplier Diversity Pilot Program for Nova Scotia, organized by the Canadian Aboriginal and Minority Supplier Council (CAMSC). The program aims to connect the university with diverse-owned businesses, giving underrepresented groups the chance to engage in the university’s purchasing processes.
Cheryl Earle, Dalhousie’s assistant vice-president finance and chief financial officer, highlights the significance of this initiative, describing the partnership as a testament to the university's "commitment to equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility" within its community. "By being inclusive in supply chains and promoting economic wealth for diverse business owners, we are fostering a stronger and more vibrant business community. This program opens doors for traditionally excluded businesses, creating a more equitable and prosperous future for all," said Cassandra Dorrington, president and CEO of CAMSC and a member of Dalhousie’s Board of Governors.
CAMSC, a not-for-profit founded in 2004, certifies diverse suppliers and links them with corporate and government buyers. The program encourages businesses owned by Indigenous, visible minority, and refugee entrepreneurs to engage with organizations like Dalhousie, driving economic inclusion across the region.
Supplier Diversity Pilot Programs
Dalhousie and CAMSC are Teaming Up to Promote Economic Inclusion
Trend Themes
1. Inclusive Procurement Programs - Universities and corporations are increasingly implementing inclusive procurement programs to support economic inclusion for underrepresented business owners.
2. Supplier Diversity Initiatives - Organizations are launching supplier diversity initiatives to connect with minority-owned businesses and promote equitable economic growth.
3. Economic Inclusion Strategies - Institutions are adopting economic inclusion strategies that aim to integrate diverse-owned businesses into their supply chains, fostering a more diverse and resilient market.
Industry Implications
1. Higher Education - Universities are playing pivotal roles in driving economic inclusion through partnerships and procurement practices that support diverse business communities.
2. Non-profit Sector - Non-profit organizations like CAMSC are essential in certifying and connecting diverse suppliers with larger corporations and government entities to promote inclusive economic policies.
3. Corporate Procurement - Corporate procurement departments are increasingly prioritizing supplier diversity to bolster economic opportunities for minority-owned businesses, creating fairer supply chains.