Welcome to The Equity Connection!
Sherrice Thomas, VP of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Access

The Equity Connection is designed to support both diverse suppliers and companies looking to diversify. Diversity, equity, inclusion, and access are critical for the success of any organization, and through our newsletter, we aim to create a community that fosters collaboration, growth, and success for all parties involved. We will provide valuable insights, resources, and opportunities for diverse suppliers to connect with potential clients and for companies to find qualified and reliable suppliers that can help them meet their goals. Join our community and be part of creating a more equitable and inclusive business environment that benefits everyone.
Diverse Supplier Spotlight 
Watt 1 Electrical Systems is a commercial, residential, and industrial electrical solar renewable energy installer. Check out the Watt 1 Electrical Systems, LLC website to learn more about this business. 
Including Diverse Suppliers in the Supply Chain
Supplier Diversity is no longer a business strategy solely focused on tracking the number of diverse suppliers an organization works with. There is a growing emphasis on ensuring that diverse-owned businesses are fully included in the supply chain and given opportunities to compete for business on an equal footing with other suppliers. Here are three ways organizations can drive supplier diversity and inclusion. 

  1. Ensure inclusive sourcing policies. 
  2. Make intentional connections with diverse suppliers in your database. 
  3. Sponsor a supplier diversity event with your local Chamber of Commerce. 

To learn more, visit the Columbus Chamber of Commerce Supplier Diversity Hub. The hub includes quick tools and resources to help buyers and procurement officers enhance their supplier diversity practices and help diverse suppliers position themselves to win contracts. You can also contact Sherrice Sledge-Thomas, VP of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Access, at the Columbus Chamber of Commerce. 
 Urban Business Connection Continues to Grow 
In 2021, the Columbus Chamber of Commerce joined forces with the Columbus Urban League to grant free Chamber memberships to thirty Black-owned businesses. With the City of Columbus's support, we expanded the program to 75 Black-owned businesses in 2023. Mallory Roth, Program Manager at the Columbus Chamber of Commerce, and Andrea Wilkes, Director of Columbus Urban League’s Minority Business Assistance Program, collaborate to lead the Urban Business Connection. On April 25th, we held a welcome reception at High Line Car House. It was a great opportunity to onboard the new businesses to the program, introduce them to existing program participants, and celebrate. Click here to learn more about the Urban Business Connection and the participating businesses. 
Bidding Opportunities
Are you interested in exploring bidding opportunities with the City of Columbus and State of Ohio? If so, click on the following links to learn more.  
U.S. Chamber of Commerce
Applications are now open for our new small business awards program
Your business could win a $25K cash prize! The U.S. Chamber of Commerce is excited to announce the launch of a new awards program for small businesses: America's Top Small Business! Applications for the program open today, May 4, 2023.
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Formerly known as the Dream Big Awards, America’s Top Small Business (ATSB) aims to recognize small businesses doing big things in their industries and communities through innovation, job creation and a commitment to being an integral part of a thriving business ecosystem.
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We’ll be choosing Top Small Businesses across America (10 in each of seven regions). The highest scoring business in each region will be named one of America’s Top Small Businesses and one finalist will win America’s Top Small Business of the Year Award — a $25,000 cash prize!
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Find out everything you need to know about the ATSB program, including who is eligible to apply, how winners are chosen, important dates and deadlines, and more on our FAQ page.
Upcoming Meetings and Events