The UMass Supplier Diversity Program aligns our procurement practices with the University’s DEIA values of building a more inclusive community that provides equitable opportunities for all. This initiative is championed by the UMass System President, Marty Meehan, and provides a framework for how each Campus and the President's Office can intentionally create access for more diverse-owned companies to do business with UMass.

Our mission is to build a leading supplier diversity program within higher education that improves the economic outcomes of local, underrepresented communities; adds business value to university stakeholders; and increases the sense of belonging and connection across all UMass constituents.

In fiscal year 2024, the UMass system spent $122 million, or 11% of total spend, with over 1,000 diverse-owned businesses. As our program evolves, we remain committed to increasing our system-wide diverse spend and engaging with our suppliers, partners, and community in ways that matter.

Program Information

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For Suppliers

If you are a diverse supplier interested in doing business with UMass, or an existing supplier interested in participating in our Tier 2 program, please visit this page to learn about the ways we work with our supplier community to expand access to opportunities within the University system.

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For Campus Buyers

As campus decision-makers, contract managers and relationship owners, the UPST's goal is to partner and collaborate with you to make supplier diversity a seamless yet intentional part of your everyday procurement decisions. Find out how you can make a difference here.

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Partnerships

UMass partners with government offices, higher education institutions, diversity organizations and agencies to collaborate on supplier diversity initiatives that aim to build the capacity of diverse businesses across the Commonwealth and link them to viable business opportunities.

Diversity Classifications We Track

UMass tracks the following diversity classifications at Tier 1 and Tier 2 spending levels, aligned with the US Small Business Administration (SBA) and other organizations like NGLCC, Disability:IN, etc.:

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News & Events

Visit our News & Events page for the latest updates and activities within UMass's Supplier Diversity Program.