Supplier Inclusion

Drexel University's Supplier Inclusion Initiative expands the University's network of suppliers by fostering relationships with a broad range of businesses to support economic impact within Philadelphia. Effective outreach and communication are key to developing strong partnerships between the University and its suppliers. The Supplier Inclusion Initiative provides local community businesses with the opportunity to develop an identifiable presence throughout the University. The Drexel community is expected to support these efforts through contracts awarded to qualified businesses.

Procurement Services promotes and supports this initiative by:

• Executing and maintaining a formal sustainable Supplier Inclusion Program with dedicated professional staff.
• Advocating for the inclusion of and equal opportunity for all qualified suppliers.
• Ensuring that a broad range of suppliers are considered for University RFPs.
• Communicating Drexel's purchasing plans to suppliers and local organizations.
• Requiring top suppliers to report Drexel Tier 2 Direct and Indirect Spend.
• Providing a simple, managed supplier registration process with internal tracking and reporting.
• Conducting supplier information opportunities and trade shows, as well as community business exchanges.
• Leading formal demonstrations of Drexel's eProcurement technology and discussions around "Doing Business with Drexel University".

Contact

Please direct questions about Supplier Inclusion to Allen Riddick, executive director of economic impact and workforce inclusion, at 215.895.6450 or supplierinclusion@drexel.edu.

Commitment to Economic Impact and Workforce Inclusion

Firms in Labor Surplus Areas

As part of its dedication to economic development and supplier inclusion, Drexel University integrates firms located in labor surplus areas (LSAs) into our procurement and partnership initiatives. The Supplier Inclusion Initiative is prominently featured in supplier outreach to ensure transparency and community engagement.

Targeted Outreach and Capacity Building

• Building Local Partnerships: Drexel collaborates with relevant organizations to identify and support firms in LSAs.
• Supporting Success: Through workshops, networking events and bid preparation, Drexel helps businesses in LSAs compete effectively for contracts with the University.

Workforce Development and Employment Opportunities

• Engaging Local Talent: In partnership with local contractors on real estate and capital projects, Drexel emphasizes hiring workers from LSAs, particularly in construction and service-related industries.
• Expanding Access: By fostering partnerships with workforce development agencies, Drexel creates pathways for individuals from LSAs to access meaningful employment opportunities.

Through these initiatives, Drexel University reaffirms its commitment to creating a more inclusive community with equal opportunity for all.

Getting Started

For Suppliers

Drexel encourages local suppliers to reach out, engage and develop business relationships with the University's Procurement Services department. If your business is located in a 19104, 19131, 19139, 19142, 19143, 19151, or 19153 zip code, then Drexel classifies your business as a "Drexel local community business." Please review the required supplier business capabilities and expectations, and then eligible suppliers should review the Engagement Process to identify their next steps.

For Faculty and Professional Staff

University faculty and professional staff looking to use a broad range of businesses for their upcoming purchases may search for appropriate suppliers by logging in to SAP Ariba. If you cannot identify a supplier that meets your needs, please contact the Executive Director of Economic Impact for further assistance at supplierinclusion@drexel.edu.