Certification Enhances Business Growth Opportunity by Expanding Access to Major Customers
The Lansing Economic Area Partnership (LEAP) has teamed up with the MilesWest Group to help 40 small businesses in Ingham County acquire their Supplier Diversity Certification through Supplier Gateway.
Funding from the Ingham County Sunrise Small Business Grant Program enables this partnership to cover certification costs, provide application guidance, and grant access to Supplier Gateway's supplier database, searchable by Fortune 500 companies and other major purchasing entities.
“We are excited that LEAP continues to find innovative and inclusive ways to invest in our community utilizing the ARPA funded Sunrise Small Business Grant Program. This initiative is another example of why the Ingham County Commissioners trusted LEAP to be good stewards of $9,750,000 in ARPA funds,” said Ryan Seabolt, Ingham County commissioner board chair.
The MilesWest Group, a Lansing-based business consulting firm whose founder, Kelly West, is also a LEAP Elevate business accelerator program alumni, will provide personalized guidance through the Supplier Diversity Certification application process for the selected small businesses. By offering one-on-one support, the MilesWest Group aims to ensure a seamless and successful certification experience for each participant.
Slots will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis, so interested businesses should apply early. The certification technical assistance is expected to end in December 2024. This new program will complement LEAP’s TREK Small Businesses Support Hub which connects small businesses to resources like this program.
Supplier Gateway's certification program encompasses various categories, including small, woman-owned, minority-owned, veteran-owned, disability-owned, LGBT+-owned, and HUBZone businesses. Successful applicants will receive a certificate and be added to the Supplier Gateway database, which is widely utilized by Fortune 500 companies seeking diverse suppliers. Additionally, certified businesses will have the opportunity to create a supplier profile, further enhancing their visibility and attracting potential business opportunities.
"We are excited to provide this valuable opportunity to small businesses in Ingham County," said Bob Trezise, president and CEO of LEAP (left). "Supplier Diversity Certification opens doors to new opportunities and resources, and we are committed to supporting the growth and success of our local businesses."
"Small businesses play a vital role in our communities, but they often face challenges in building capacity, accessing capital and educational resources, and establishing support networks," says Kelly West, founder and chief executive officer at the MilesWest Group. Business certifications, such as Supplier Diversity Certification, serve as crucial stepping stones for these enterprises. Certification enables businesses to qualify for educational development programs, attend workshops and networking events, access additional sources of capital, and expand their business networks.
"Moreover, certifications can assist small businesses in accessing benefits like early payment programs, diversity marketplaces, and diverse/local procurement initiatives with corporate buyers," says Tony Willis, chief equity development officer at LEAP (left).
LEAP is committed to empowering small businesses and fostering their growth. This partnership aims to equip local enterprises with the tools and resources necessary to thrive in today's competitive business landscape by providing financial support and personalized guidance.
Interested applicants can apply here by September 30. The 40 spots are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
###
About LEAP
The Lansing Economic Area Partnership (LEAP) is a coalition of area leaders partnering to build a stronger community for all — working every day to grow, retain and attract business to the Lansing, Michigan, region.
