Supplier Diversity & Your Business

In this episode of The Business Gay Podcast, host Calan Breckon speaks with A.J. Stewart, the Operations Manager For Supplier Diversity at Canada's 2SLGBTQI+ Chamber of Commerce, also known as the CGLCC.
As a subject matter expert for Supplier Diversity, A.J.'s goal is to connect diverse entrepreneurs to a broad network of Canada's largest corporations with an invested interest in diversifying their supply chains, as well as fellow diverse owned businesses. IDEA (Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, Accessibility) is a family business for A.J. In his role at the CGLCC, he is passionate about advocacy for diverse & marginalized communities holistically.
► Website: www.cglcc.ca/
► Podcast Options: calanbreckon.com/podcast/supplier-diversity-and-your-business
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Key Takeaways for quick navigation and Timestamp Summary:
[00:42] 🌐 Supplier Diversity is a commitment by major corporations to diversify their supply chains and provide opportunities for diverse-owned businesses.
[02:35] 🌿 Supplier Diversity is crucial for businesses to align with ESG goals, fostering innovation, competitiveness, and economic opportunities while meeting social responsibility standards.
[06:01] 🔄 Certification as a diverse supplier is not a compromise on cost, quality, or service but offers access to a network, resources, and support, promoting inclusivity and business growth.
[13:26] 💼 Large corporations benefit from Supplier Diversity through access to diverse perspectives, cost-effective operations, and enhanced corporate social responsibility, ultimately contributing to their bottom line.
[16:12] 🌐 Small suppliers can better equip themselves by being prepared, doing homework on potential partners, following up effectively, and demonstrating patience in the often lengthy process of engaging with large corporations.
[22:54] 🌈 CGLCC offers both Supplier Diversity Certification (B2B focused for businesses majority-owned by the community) and Rainbow Registered Accreditation (B2C focused for any business, regardless of ownership, promoting inclusivity).
[23:22] 🚀 Supplier Diversity Certification provides B2B businesses access to large supply chains, learning opportunities, mentorship, and networking, while Rainbow Registered focuses on creating inclusive spaces for the 2SLGBTQI+ community.
[24:46] 👥 Rainbow Registered signifies businesses as allies and supporters of the 2SLGBTQI+ community, even if not owned by community members, promoting inclusivity in their policies and practices.
[25:15] 🌐 To learn more about CGLCC and certifications, visit their website at cglcc.ca
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► The Business Gay is a weekly podcast all about business, marketing, and entrepreneurship. Hosted by Calan Breckon, it's a mix of 1-on-1 interviews as well as round table discussions with experts on hot topics happening in the world of business and tech, as well as tips and ideas to help grow your business.
► Website: CalanBreckon.com/
► Hey There, I'm Calan Breckon. I'm an SEO Specialist who teaches Entrepreneurs and Business Owners the fundamentals of setting up and maintaining a successful online business using search engine optimization tactics.