Minority Business News & Blog

Each May, we pause to honor the rich histories, varied cultures, and powerful contributions of Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) communities. AAPI Heritage Month offers us not only a moment of celebration but also an opportunity for reflection and renewed commitment to economic empowerment for all. The origins of AAPI Heritage Month date back […]

March is Women’s History Month, a time to honor the extraordinary contributions of women who have shaped our nation’s progress, prosperity, and moral integrity. First declared by the U.S. Congress in 1987, this month serves as a powerful reminder of the resilience, leadership, and innovation of women—particularly women of color—who have paved the way for […]

Shamis Pitts (she/her) is the Founder and CEO of Pitts Leadership Consulting (PLC). She has operated at the intersection of strategy, people management and leadership and operations for 25+ years within various industries. Helping organizations and the people within them thrive is the purpose of her work. Shamis holds an MBA from Cornell’s Johnson Graduate […]

Stephen Ball began his career practicing law at a major firm in New York City. Since then, he has held senior roles across several industries, including financial services, technology, and higher education. Stephen earned his J.D. from Harvard Law School, along with a master’s degree in public policy and a bachelor’s degree in political science […]

Manish Desai is the founder of EcoRich Food Waste Solutions, a business specializing in composting and waste management equipment. With a business career that began in 1999, Manish successfully operated an auto parts business for 20 years before launching EcoRich Composting Equipment Company in 2015. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the business faced challenges as commercial […]

As we celebrate Black History Month, we honor the remarkable achievements and enduring legacy of Black entrepreneurs and leaders who have shaped the business world and paved the way for progress. This month reminds us not only to reflect on the past but also to commit ourselves to building a future rooted in collaboration, empowerment, […]

Michael Bavaro is the Corporate Vice President at Navitas Partners, bringing over 15 years of experience in sales leadership and business development. Known for thriving under pressure, he consistently delivers exceptional results and tackles challenges with innovative, outside-the-box thinking. Michael excels in sales process optimization, strategic selling, customer relationship management, and team building. As an […]

Dear MBEs, As we look ahead to the coming year, the landscape for Minority Business Enterprises (MBEs) is shifting in ways that require both vigilance and proactive adaptation. Recent developments at the federal level have introduced new challenges that we must address head-on. On January 22, 2025, President Donald Trump’s administration directed all federal employees […]

Parag Shroff is an experienced and dynamic corporate leader at 22nd Century Technologies, Inc., bringing extensive expertise in information technology, cybersecurity, personnel and human resources, sales and marketing, financial management, operations, and business development. His broad base of executive management experience stems from roles in both large organizations and start-up companies, showcasing his versatility and […]

Today, as we honor the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., we reflect on his unwavering fight for civil rights, equality, and justice. His vision of a society rooted in fairness and inclusion continues to guide us, inspiring us to pursue the American Dream that he so passionately championed. Dr. King’s words, […]

Beverly White, President of BKW Transformation Group, has worked in both domestic and international settings within major corporations, bringing a wealth of experience to her professional endeavors. Passionate about helping clients transition from their current state to a targeted future state, including implementing AI strategies, she is certified in AI strategy, Six Sigma, and other […]

Standing Together: Applauding Costco’s Leadership in DEI In a time when Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) are facing unprecedented challenges, Costco has shown us what real leadership looks like. While many companies are scaling back their commitments under pressure, Costco has stood firm, showing the world that staying true to your values isn’t just about […]

Colin Hall, an entrepreneur and founder of Alpha International Travel, started his company in 1984, bringing over 30 years of experience to the travel industry. With no marketing budget at the time, Colin conducted his own market research by polling passersby on the streets of Manhattan while working as a FedEx courier. Driven by a […]

As we close out 2024, we are filled with gratitude and pride as we reflect on a year of remarkable achievements and meaningful partnerships. First and foremost, we want to extend a heartfelt thank you to our sponsors. Your unwavering support has been crucial to the success of our events, and your commitment to diversity […]

As we gather with loved ones to celebrate Thanksgiving, I want to take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude for our incredible community. This season reminds us of the importance of reflection, appreciation, and connection — values that resonate deeply with the work we do together every day. At the Council, we are profoundly […]

Ellie Reda, a Hispanic woman CEO of Stratford Solutions, leads an IT staffing firm based in New Jersey. With roots in Brooklyn and a deep connection to her Colombian heritage, Elizabeth founded Stratford Solutions in 2015, growing it into a certified WMBE, DBE, and SBE provider. She brings over two decades of expertise in contract […]

The Founder and CEO of The Ultimate Side Dish brings many years of experience in crafting the company’s signature product. Born out of a deep love, passion, and a cherished family potato salad recipe created by the family’s Matriarch, the business honors tradition while offering a delightful experience tailored to modern palates. About The Ultimate […]

This Veterans Day, we honor the brave men and women who have served in the United States Armed Forces. Their courage, sacrifice, and commitment to protecting our freedoms inspire us all. Today, we express our deepest gratitude to these heroes for their service and the values they continue to bring into our communities and workplaces. […]

Did You Know? “The 2025 Presidential Transition Project is the conservative movement’s unified effort to be ready for the next conservative Administration to govern at 12:00 noon, January 20, 2025.” Chapter 22 of Project 2025, which begins on page 691, focuses on the specific recommendations to reorganize and refocus the Department of Treasury. Chapter 15, […]

Sanjeev Welling, Co-Founder and CEO of Avira Digital, leads a technology services firm specializing in digital transformation and AI-driven solutions. With over 20 years of experience, he drives innovation and strategic growth. Under his leadership, Avira Digital has become a leader in delivering transformative solutions that enhance business operations Sanjeev’s expertise spans multiple technology sectors, […]

As we celebrate Native American Heritage Month in 2024, I invite all of us to take a moment to reflect on the profound contributions Indigenous Peoples have made—and continue to make—to our nation. From deep-rooted traditions to their influence in shaping the future, Indigenous Peoples have always been essential to the very fabric of our […]

Danielle Chery is a self-taught artist and the founder of DMC Original Art, an award-winning home decor business based in Brooklyn, NY. What began in 2012 as her hobby has evolved into a passion that led her to launch her own business in 2021. She specializes in creating functional abstract art for residential and commercial […]

Aneesha Varma serves as the Director of Client Relations and Strategy for the healthcare team at Diverse Lynx. In this role, she thrives on the dynamic challenges of business development, from cultivating new client relationships to strengthening existing partnerships. She is passionate about driving growth and ensuring client success. Managing operations across global teams keeps […]

Gary Pasricha is the founder and managing partner of Pasricha & Patel, LLC. He represents clients in various corporate and business matters, including mergers and acquisitions, reorganizations, debt and equity transactions, private placements, corporate governance, technology agreements, commercial real estate and leasing, secured transactions, and employment issues. Additionally, Gary provides legal counsel to startups and […]

Did You Know? “The 2025 Presidential Transition Project is the conservative movement’s unified effort to be ready for the next conservative Administration to govern at 12:00 noon, January 20, 2025.” Chapter 21 of Project 2025, beginning on page 663, focuses on the strategies to transform the Department of Commerce and Chapter 23, beginning on page […]

As Hispanic Heritage Month begins, it is important to reflect on the impact that Hispanic businesses have had on communities, the economy, and society. This annual celebration, running from September 15 to October 15, honors the rich cultural heritage, vibrant traditions, and remarkable achievements of the Hispanic community. It is also a time to recognize […]

Alison is a national style and image consultant with clients across the country. She studied at the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City, and holds a Color certification from the Image Resource Center of New York.  The purpose of her work is to empower women by creating a visual brand and transforming their […]

Meet your entertainer for the 2024 Partnership Awards Gala—Reggie Woods. Reggie is a masterful saxophonist, composer, arranger, producer, and educator. As a Queens, New York native, his sound was influenced by jazz legends Gene Ammons and Dexter Gordon, yet his soulful and unique style is entirely his own. While his sound is reminiscent of jazz […]

Did You Know? “The 2025 Presidential Transition Project is the conservative movement’s unified effort to be ready for the next conservative Administration to govern at 12:00 noon, January 20, 2025.” This document, coordinated by the Heritage Foundation is not simply a “wish list of ideas”Chapter 25 of Project 25, beginning on page 745, focuses on […]

Did You Know? On March 11, 2024, the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency’s (CISA) and the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) released the Secure Software Development Attestation Form (SSDF), a common form that will help ensure the software producers who partner with the federal government leverage minimum secure development techniques and toolsets. The SSFDF […]

Did You Know? The Cyber Incident Reporting for Critical Infrastructure Act of 2022 (CIRCIA) requires theCybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) to implement rules governing cyberincident and ransom payment reporting requirements for “covered entities.” The rules, aimedat improving transparency and information sharing about major cyber incidents affecting U.S.critical infrastructure would require that covered entities report […]

Did You Know? “The 2025 Presidential Transition Project is the conservative movement’s unified effort to be ready for the next conservative Administration to govern at 12:00 noon, January 20, 2025.” This is the opening statement and clarion call from “Project 2025,” a conservative manifesto and blueprint for the policies that will dramatically shrink the infrastructure […]

Did You Know? On June 28, the US Supreme Court decided a case that overturned 40 years of precedent that has been in place since 1984. This precedent, referred to as the “Chevron Doctrine,” gave the power to interpret laws to subject matter experts in federal agencies who wrote the regulations to implement the law. […]

Angela Y. Leon is the Program Manager and Technology Implementation Specialist at Semirosas, LLC. With over 10 years of experience in project management, event coordination, and specialized training, Angela has a proven track record of delivering impactful solutions that streamline business systems, improve communication, and advance critical initiatives. She excels in driving operational efficiency and […]

Yuliya immigrated to the United States from Ukraine in the early 2000s, graduated college, and proceeded to lay the foundation to become a leader in her community and industry.  In 2017, she established The Best Shades, LLC alongside her husband Marat Gimadiev. This venture was born from her passion for construction, entrepreneurship, and mentorship. Yuliya […]

Lalitha Priya Chandrashekhar, better known as Priya, is an award-winning visionary leader in healthcare communications with over 18 years of experience. In 2013, Priya took her passion for patient value and access and founded PFG MedComm. Her vision was to take a different approach to market access strategy. As a minority, woman founder of a […]

Today marks a day of celebration and remembering the freedom that was long sought after by enslaved people in America. On June 19, 1866 the last slaves in Galveston, Texas were informed that they were free — more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was signed. Since that day, Juneteenth has evolved into a […]

June also marks the beginning of a month-long celebration of the Caribbean American culture. At The Council, we are proud to honor the rich heritage, profound contributions, and enduring spirit of the Caribbean American community.  We can see the influence that Caribbean American culture has had on our country—from the rhythmic beats of reggae, soca, […]

Devin Jackson is a distinguished technology leader and entrepreneur, currently serving as the CEO at GrahamStak, a dynamic IT firm specializing in government contracting. At GrahamStak, Devin leverages his extensive technical expertise and strategic vision to drive innovative solutions for government projects, particularly those requiring highly skilled cloud and cybersecurity personnel. In addition to his […]

Arlenis Dominquez is the Founder and President of Vivid Arc, an architecture and design firm located just outside New York City. For the past 10 years, she has worked as a licensed architect throughout the states of New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Connecticut, and Massachusetts. Her passion for architecture stems from the desire to share […]

June brings in warm weather and with it Pride Month! This month holds a lot of significance as we come together and celebrate the LGBTQ+ community, honor its rich history, and recognize the strides made toward quality and acceptance. Pride Month is not only a time of celebration but also a reminder of the ongoing […]

Liza Pizarro-White is the CEO and Founder of LPW, where she has steered LPW with unwavering dedication for over 20 years. Today, LPW is a thriving minority and woman-owned enterprise, specializing in technology training. LPW has expanded globally, boasting a network of over 500 trainers spanning 54 countries and 34 languages with over 13,000 successful […]

Chris Colbert is a Webby & New York Festival award-winning podcast host, producer, and writer. He is the CEO and Founder of DCP Entertainment, a media production & distribution network for underrepresented voices. Prior to founding DCP Entertainment, Chris previously worked at SXM and Cadence13, where he worked with names like Jamie Foxx, Touré, Joy-Ann […]

Spring is officially here, bringing with it a vibrant celebration of culture, history, and contributions from the Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) community. At The Council, we embrace the richness of diversity in all its forms, recognizing the role AAPI individuals and businesses play in shaping our society and economy. Celebrating Achievements This month […]

Did You Know? The Biden Administration has taken significant steps to enhance the participation of small businesses infederal contracting, particularly through the expansion of the “Rule of Two” to multiple-award contracts.This is especially important as an increasing number of contracts are being awarded through thesegovernment-wide acquisition contract and multiple-award contract vehicles, reaching an all-time high […]

Brittany Hale is an undefeated trial attorney who pivoted toward providing businesses with proactive leadership and organizational design solutions. She’s taught “Managing Human Behaviors in Organizations” at an Ivy League institution and provided business solutions for startup and enterprise organizations alike.  As a trusted guide, she enables leaders to navigate intricate organizational transitions by operationalizing […]

Cathleen Trigg-Jones is a social entrepreneur and executive with a background in journalism, multi-media production, public relations, marketing, public speaking, and executive coaching. She has created and led three independent media companies and is a strategic marketing, crisis communications, and business consultant for global CEOs and Fortune 500 companies.   Cathleen began her career as a […]

As we celebrate Earth Day in 2024, the urgency to address environmental challenges has never been more apparent. With climate change continuing to be an ongoing issue and the need for sustainable practices becoming increasingly evident, businesses need to step up and take responsibility for their impact on the planet. At The Council, we believe […]

Antonio “Tronic” McDonald is the Founder, Chief Creative Officer, Executive Producer, and Live-Action Director of KUAMP Inc. Antonio had a vision of an exceptional company that was skilled at presenting stimulating and thought-provoking images. With his dream in mind, he embarked on a daunting task: raising society’s existing expectation of urban mediocrity in the media […]

Priscilla Jiminian is the Founder and CEO of Skinergy Beauty, a Caribbean-inspired skincare brand that specializes in dark spot and color-correcting treatments. A native New Yorker (The Bronx) from the Dominican Republic, Priscilla received her BA from John Jay College of Criminal Justice and has a decade-long background in real estate, where she learned the […]

Ethan Dowie is the CEO and visionary founder of Indigo Promotions. His goal in establishing this company was to innovate in the realm of corporate branded merchandise, specifically for events and impactful marketing campaigns. They don’t just create products; they craft unique, memorable items that elevate events, boost marketing efforts, and enhance overall company images. […]

Having co-founded the original company, New Jersey Sorting Company in 1984, Leticia Murphy now resides as Chairperson, leading The Millennium Group (TMG) into a nationally recognized full-service office and facilities management company. Coming from a production mail background, Leticia maintains a steadfast vision of the founding principles on which TMG was built; client loyalty, commitment […]

Amit is a seasoned outsourcing, technology, and procurement expert that has been supporting the USA, Singapore, and India with Smartshore for more than 15 years. Under the Smartshore umbrella, he has advised various Wall Street clients on technology and procurement outsourcing. Amit has been involved with outsourcing for over 25 years and has been instrumental […]

Did You Know? The National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) includes three key provisions that could have a significant business impact on the member companies.

Each year during Women’s History Month, The Council takes time to recognize the many contributions of women and highlights some lesser-known figures who made a big impact on history. This year resonates even more with The Council, as the official theme for this month is “Women Who Advocate for Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion.”  Our daily […]

Diana Domenech is Owner and Visionary of Accelerate Consulting Experts (ACE) and a proven professional in leading organizations, influencing groups, and developing people and businesses. Here, she assists and advises larger companies on how to strategize and execute global diversity & sustainability programs. For smaller or disadvantaged businesses, she works to develop and execute plans […]

Growing up in Harlem, New York in the 1950s, Irene Smalls experienced and lived through segregation, integration, racial violence, the ‘Black Lives Matter’ movement, and present-day racial conservatism. These experiences affected her at a young age and continue to influence the career she has made for herself.  Irene Smalls is a Black Historian, Author, and […]

At The Council, we are excited to welcome the month of February as it marks a month-long celebration of Black History.  This annual observance is a time to reflect on the rich history, achievements, and contributions that African Americans have made to our nation throughout the years. This year, we want to take this opportunity […]

As we continue to push for progress and equality, the 95th Birthday of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. serves as a time of reflection and remembrance of his contributions to advancing minority communities everywhere. Today, we reflect on his teachings and the principles he championed. Dr. King’s dream of a just and equal society is […]

For Taiye Doughty, the spirit of entrepreneurship in his family began back in 1875 when his great-grandfather Hector Walker was born. He was the first entrepreneur from their family in America. He started as a sharecropper and grew to become a modest farmer which ignited a bold spirit of business ownership that he passed down […]

As this year comes to a close, everyone at The New York & New Jersey Minority Supplier Development Council would like to take a moment to reflect back on the moments that made our 50th Anniversary year one of the best yet, because there was a lot to celebrate!  But, before we dig into what […]

When November 11th was officially named Veterans Day in 1952, United States President Dwight D. Eisenhower called upon all citizens to join together in “solemnly remember[ing] the sacrifices of all those who fought so valiantly on the seas, in the air, and on foreign shores, to preserve our heritage of freedom.” As our troops continue […]

Ezra Salami specializes in business law-related matters spanning a business’s entire life cycle, namely corporate formation and governance, investment agreements, and contractual agreements. On top of his business law expertise, clients who work with Ezra gain first-hand exposure to years’ worth of small to mid-sized commercial litigation experience, adding an invaluable perspective on the real-world […]

Native American businesses play a crucial role in the economic landscape of the United States. Collectively their business encompasses a wide array of industries, from agriculture and manufacturing to technology and healthcare. As such, they contribute not only to our local and regional economies but also to the overall prosperity of our nation. We want […]

About the Event Join Us with Citi for our 13th Annual Sustainability Symposium. This year’s symposium will focus on Transforming Supply Chains: Shaping the Vision Toward a Sustainable Future. The Council has long been a leader in minority business development and capacity building, and we were among the first to offer workshops focused on Supply […]

About the Event The New York & New Jersey Minority Supplier Development Council will host its 2024 Healthcare Symposium at Northwell Health Corporate Headquarters in New Hyde Park, NY on October 2. The Symposium will focus on the Healthcare Industry, reflecting on the overall theme “Advancing Supplier Diversity in Healthcare” and is dedicated to understanding […]

It is with great joy that I extend my warmest greetings to each and every one of you as we begin Hispanic Heritage Month! This annual observance serves as a reflection and reminder of the immense contributions that Hispanic and Latinx communities have made to our nation’s fabric. Their rich cultures, histories, and accomplishments have […]

Amy Banala is the proud owner of a minority woman-owned business called Praxis Consultants based in New Jersey. As a woman coming from an underrepresented community, she has harnessed her entrepreneurial spirit to create an IT service solutions company that serves the needs of their customers in various industries.  Despite facing numerous challenges, Amy has […]

Ashish Garg started his company, Net2Source, at the age of 23 by taking out a personal loan. He approached 15 banks to gather a total of $100k in loans and started operations in India with five employees, zero clients, and a 500 square foot office. His company is now in 32 countries and is a […]

Coming from a small town in India and migrating to the US in 2017, Ajeta Sinha, or AJ, has moved her way through leadership roles at Net2Source. When she first joined the company, she was the first woman in their leadership team. Now, after 8 and a half years with the company, she has been […]

Emmett Walker, CEO of Walker SCM, joined the Council in 1989. Since joining, he has built long-standing relationships that have been an integral part of his success. In fact, after more than three decades at the Council—two of which he served as the Chair of the MBE Input Committee (MBEIC) (2013 to 2015)—Emmett Walker is […]

“Where’s Bruce?” A common phrase Bruce Browning’s former manager used to ask his colleagues at the Japanese bank he worked at after undergraduate school. He was working as a municipal bond analyst that helped to calculate the likelihood of a municipality defaulting on their municipal bonds. While he valued this position, it wasn’t the right […]

On June 19, 1865, news of the Emancipation Proclamation finally reached Texas, marking the liberation of those who had been held in bondage for far too long. This event serves as a powerful reminder of the ongoing fight for equality and justice. It’s a day that represents freedom, resilience, and the unwavering spirit of hope.  […]

June is a month filled with vibrant celebrations, commemorations, and observances. From Pride Month to Juneteenth, and many others, there is no shortage of significant events for us to recognize! Amidst this bustling array of festivities, it is important to acknowledge and honor the rich culture, contributions, and history of the Caribbean American community.  Caribbean […]

Aakash Singh has a strong passion for technology and a background in account management leading to his success as an Account Manager at ATD Technology LLC. Through his work at ATD Technology, he was able to merge his love for technology with his expertise in managing accounts. He prides himself in being dedicated to providing […]

Alpha Business Solution’s CEO, Gene Waddy, has been a long-standing member of the New York & New Jersey Minority Supplier Development Council (NYNJMSDC). In fact, Gene joined the Council in 2005 when he co-founded his first enterprise, DIVERSANT.  Since then, Gene started and grew Alpha Business Solutions into the largest African American, male-owned payroll/employer-of-record firm […]

As the month of June begins, the Council joins the country in celebrating Pride Month—an important time to honor and recognize the LGBTQ+ community and their invaluable contributions. This month, we want to take a moment to reflect on the significance of Pride Month and highlight our commitment to fostering a culture of acceptance and […]

NEW YORK, NY — The New York and New Jersey Minority Supplier Development Council (NYNJMSDC) is thrilled to announce that Alpha Business Solutions and Walker SCM have joined as 50th Anniversary VIP Sponsors for their momentous 50th anniversary year. These partnerships mark a significant milestone for the Council as it aligns with its mission of […]

Denene Jonielle Rodney is an award-winning researcher, graduate of business acceleration programs, and CEO of the qualitative and quantitative research design firm, Zebra Strategies. Through Zebra Strategies, Denene has worked with hundreds of companies across various industries like nonprofits, foundations, government agencies, and varying aspects of healthcare. Zebra Strategies serves these firms with the aim […]

We are happy to offer bi-monthly webinars that are designed to provide potential new members in the New York and New Jersey area with a comprehensive understanding of the benefits of MBE certification. About Pre-Certification Webinars Are you interested in becoming an NMSDC certified-MBE in New York or New Jersey?  Our team will guide potential […]

“Advancing Leaders Through Opportunities” As May approaches, we reflect on the significance of the upcoming month, which marks the 45th anniversary of Asian American & Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month. Over the years, this month-long celebration has provided people across the country with valuable opportunities to learn about the rich history and diverse cultures of […]

If you’re ready to learn from one of the best in the industry and connect with like-minded professionals, join us for the next Straight Talk with Terrence Clark event. About Straight Talk with Terrence Clark Get personalized attention and build your business network Here at The Council, we offer our certified-MBEs the opportunity to attend […]

As we approach Earth Day on April 22nd, I want to take a moment to emphasize the importance of recognizing this day for businesses. For over half a century, Earth Day has served as a reminder of the impact that we, as individuals and as business leaders, have on the environment. It is our responsibility […]

Mildred Tolentino has more than 20 years of experience in project and program management, design, and construction. While working at M TO Pros Development, she has been a dynamic leader in the construction industry with a “we can do it attitude”. Her current responsibilities include leading the company operations and account management. Mildred has an […]

As the President of Tough Leaf, Wissam ensures that minority-owned businesses are winning more projects and growing their capacity. Wissam oversees the Tough Leaf matching platform, which pairs MBEs with bidding opportunities at no cost to them.  Founded by CBS MBA graduates Amir Zahlan and Wissam Akra, Tough Leaf’s mission is to empower minority-owned businesses […]

The Council recognizes the significance of the start of March, as it marks the beginning of Women’s History Month. During this month, we take the time to reflect and celebrate the vital role women play in both American history and modern culture, and recognize the lasting impact that many historic women have left through their […]

The New York and New Jersey Minority Supplier Development Council is proud to announce the celebration of our 50-Year “Golden” Anniversary in 2023. As we reflect on the amazing milestone that is 50 years of serving our local business community, we think about all the progress we have made in empowering minority suppliers and connecting […]

Udayan Bose, Founder and CEO of NetElixir, started the company with a vision to help retail businesses succeed online. As CEO, he has led the way in building NetElixir into a premier digital marketing agency, using smart, data-driven solutions to deliver exceptional performance for retailers across industries. Udayan’s exclusive focus on the digital retail space […]

Perry Wilson is a dynamic energy executive with 15 years of cross functional experience in wholesale and retail markets who has managed trading, pricing, risk, product development, asset management, acquisitions, marketing, and forecasting. He has a robust and working knowledge of all U.S. gas and power markets with a broad range of deep functional disciplines […]

The beginning of February marks the start of Black History Month. What started out as a week-long event has expanded into a full month of celebrating the achievements of African Americans whose accomplishments have gone unnoticed for too long in history. In recognition of African Americans’ fight toward ending historic and ongoing oppression, this year’s […]

“If you can’t fly then run, if you can’t run then walk, if you can’t walk then crawl, but whatever you do you have to keep moving forward.” – Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. What would have been a celebration of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s 93rd birthday is now a day of remembrance […]

As another year comes to a close, we are eagerly looking forward to what 2023 has in store for The Council! Next year marks our 50th anniversary year and we’re excited to announce that we will be able to provide some new and exciting opportunities to our constituents in the new year. However, this is […]

NEW YORK, NY—The New York and New Jersey Minority Supplier Development Council (NYNJMSDC) is pleased to announce the recipients of the 2022 Corporate Awards, which were announced during a brief virtual ceremony on December 8, 2022. The corporate awards were received by I. Javette Hines, Global Head, Supply Chain Development, Inclusion and Sustainability for Citi […]

Rey Montalvo has been working in the energy field for 50 years, with the last 35 years at one company, Consolidated Energy Design (“CED”). He started off as General Manager, and over time became the President & CEO. After gaining years of energy conservation expertise, he’s now focused on a higher subset called Smart Grid […]

Sal Austin is a Senior VP at DGX Security (DGX). He is a security expert, an Internet for ALL Advocate, and a Cloud Champion with over 20 years of hands on experience in the IT and Security Industry. He has extensive experience in business practices, operational leadership, technology and management. Sal is also a community […]

The Council joyfully recognizes Native American Heritage Month this November, using this time to explore and celebrate the heritage, culture, and experiences of Indigenous peoples both historically and in American life today. Though we proudly advocate for Native American business owners and entrepreneurs throughout the year, we believe it is equally important to pay tribute […]

AGENDA  SESSIONS SPEAKERS  SPONSORS About the Event Wednesday, November 16 8 am – 3 pm Mt. Sinai Corporate Offices 150 East 42nd Street, 4th FloorNew York, New York 10017 Mount Sinai Health System is proud to partner with the New York & New Jersey Minority Supplier Development Council for a Healthcare Symposium. We will focus […]

Brett Bucktooth is the Supplier Diversity Manager at Ongweoweh. Before starting his career he grew up on a small Native American reservation in Onondaga, NY—located just 3 miles south of Syracuse. His first passion in life is lacrosse, which is a part of who the Onondagas are as a people—from birth to death. Lacrosse is […]

Xavier Armand’s story as it pertains to The Vaan Group starts back in 2010 when his partner, Chuong Nguyen-Thanh started a consulting group for a prominent E-Cigarette company. It was the new age of E-Cigarettes. Nobody knew what it was, but everybody wanted to get their hands on it. By day they were selling the […]

Firoz Lalji is chairman, CEO, and co-founder of Zones, LLC. Throughout the company’s 30-year history, Firoz Lalji has provided the vision and leadership necessary to transform Zones into a global solutions provider and award-winning business enterprise. Today Zones, LLC, is a global IT solutions provider that delivers products and services to help companies complete their […]

This Symposium will speak broadly about Supply Chain sustainability and its current impact on all businesses, whether minority-owned, small or diverse. It will also focus on understanding Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) as an integral part of everyday business.

This Hispanic Heritage Month, The Council proudly recognizes the millions of Hispanic Americans who enrich our nation. We celebrate the prosperity of our nation’s Latinx/Hispanic businesses and business owners and applaud communities in New York and New Jersey — and around the nation — that fully commit to their growth and development.  The National Council […]

Denise Woodard is the Founder and CEO of Partake Foods, a natural food company that was inspired by her daughter’s experience with food allergies. Partake’s first product — delicious, better for you, allergy-friendly cookies — was launched in 2017 and can now be found in more than 8,000 retail outlets, including Target, Trader Joe’s, Kroger, […]

Masterex Technologies Inc. established with a goal to provide the best, most cost-effective solutions to their client’s information management needs. They provide objective business advice to help their clients achieve market-leading results. More and more companies are turning to Masterex Technologies Inc. to help them create business value through technology that translates into superior market […]

National Fuel Gas Company (NYSE: NFG) is a diversified, integrated energy company with a complementary mix of natural gas assets located in the heart of the prolific Appalachian basin and supplemented by quality oil-producing assets in California.  From the bottom of the wellbore to the customer’s burner tip, National Fuel has structured our collective group […]

Based in New York City, The Sophia Consulting Firm LLC (SCF) is a strategic scientific marketing and communications consultancy that partners with global emerging and established life science organizations with the goal of amplifying scientific innovation. Key therapeutic areas of focus include oncology, women’s health, regenerative and aesthetic medicine. SCF was founded in 2017 by […]

In a month jam-packed with diversity celebrations, the New York & New Jersey Minority Supplier Development Council would also like to take a moment and recognize the contributions of Caribbean-Americans to our nation—and our economy. We hope that by commemorating National Caribbean-American Heritage Month, we will remind all Americans that this country’s strength is rooted […]

Juneteenth, celebrated the 19th of June, is a holiday that observes the end of slavery in the U.S. and marks the day in 1865 when news of emancipation reached people in the deepest parts of the former Confederacy. Though only officially declared our nation’s newest federal holiday in 2021, Juneteenth has been celebrated for decades […]

June is Pride Month, and we are excited to amplify the rainbow of voices, experiences, and history shared by LGBTQIA+ people. As allies, we use this time to share our commitment in supporting the queer community as we work together to create a future free from discrimination and cruelty.  This June, we pay tribute to […]

Chih-Chin Sun has extensive branding, marketing, and communications experience, having worked with a large roster of global brands. She has focused her career on positioning and promoting products and services for companies that are expanding internationally. Ms. Sun founded EMMA Worldwide in 1998 as a marketing and promotions house in New York City. She expanded […]

As the Procurement Outreach Partner at  the Federal Home Loan Bank of New York (FHLBNY) for over four years Navin Persaud has been responsible for procurement, supplier diversity and facilities management in the Corporate Real Estate department. Navin’s primary role is to support the procurement function, which includes supplier diversity initiatives under the pillars of […]

May is Asian American & Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month and we are honored to be able to join our Asian Pacific business owners and corporate members in celebrating their rich and storied history. Today, Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders are the fastest-growing racial group in the United States and AAPI Heritage Month celebrates their […]

Spring has finally sprung and with it comes one celebration that gets more and more attention each year: Earth Day.  What began 52 years ago as a movement to bring awareness to environmental issues has become a global call-to-action to help combat climate change. And whether you celebrate Earth Day or Earth Week—or if you […]

Azra Khalfan-Kermali, is the founder and CEO of Away in a BOX, a division of Plaques by Azra and Signs and Lucite Products. Plaques by Azra is a trusted supplier for awards and signs and recently expanded to offer a Cultural Intelligence Training Program for employee engagement and leadership development. Azra was born and raised in Queens, […]

Jessica Johnson-Cope is a business executive who combines experience, communications, and common sense to address her clients’ safety and security challenges. Jessica leads the amazing team at Johnson Security Bureau where for 60 years her family has protected valuable people, places and property in the Tri-State area. Every day, highly respected organizations and corporations entrust […]

Sheri A. Shafir, A.P.P., is the Supplier Diversity and Sustainability Manager of Procurement at New York University. In her current role, Sheri champions Supplier Diversity and Sustainability to drive innovation, value, social/economic justice, and environmentally responsible sourcing. Sheri mentors, relationship builds, and introduces qualified diverse and sustainable suppliers to NYU decision makers and influencers. Prior to […]

Swati Scanlon is Vice President, Head of Governance and Supplier Diversity at New York Life Insurance Company. In this new role since 2021, she is responsible for establishing governance framework and 1st-line audit functions related to sourcing and third-party management processes. Prior to this, she headed up New York Life’s Third-Party Management Office since 2016, where […]

March is Women’s History Month, as first declared by the U.S. Congress in 1987 to salute women for their invaluable contributions to the nation’s progress, prosperity, and moral integrity. Since that time, Women’s History Month has become a meaningful opportunity to remember the women who made an impact on this country, women such as trailblazers […]

The WNET Group creates inspiring media content and meaningful experiences for diverse audiences nationwide. It is the nonprofit parent company of New York’s THIRTEEN – America’s flagship PBS station – WLIW21, THIRTEEN PBSKids, WLIW World and Create; Long Island’s only NPR station WLIW-FM; and ALL ARTS, the arts and culture media provider. The WNET Group […]

As a leading, certified, minority-owned, full-service insurance broker and risk advisor headquartered in Secaucus, NJ, the Alamo Insurance Group is devoted to finding the opportunity in risk. Whether risk identification, assessment, prioritization, or mitigation, we are committed to delivering a truly differentiated client experience. Our founder and principal, Luis Alamo, has personally guided the agency […]

NEW YORK, NY—The New York and New Jersey Minority Supplier Development Council (NYNJMSDC) is pleased to announce the recipients of the 2021 Corporate Awards, which were announced during a brief virtual ceremony on February 10, 2022. 2021 National Corporation of the Year: AT&T The National Corporation of the Year Award represents excellence in minority business […]

Captivate Marketing Group is led by Yvonne McNair, the highly creative certified Entertainment Marketing Professional and two-time Emmy Nominated Event Producer. Yvonne has a proven track record of conceptualizing and orchestrating small and large production events, marketing campaigns and programs to effectively create business development opportunities, and increase revenue and growth. Yvonne is known as […]

Black History Month is a very important opportunity for us to recognize and celebrate the important contributions and achievements of Blacks throughout history, including Black people who have been trailblazers in the field of entrepreneurship. We must continue to raise our voices to celebrate and, where necessary, impress upon society to continue recognizing Black leaders, businesses, […]

Sharad D. Madison, is President and CEO of United Building Maintenance (UBM). The company was founded in 1991 by his late Dad, Oliver Madison. The company provides commercial building maintenance, inclusive of janitorial and engineering services, to Fortune 100 companies and high-profile clients in New York, New Jersey and Philadelphia. Some of UBM’s clients are […]

Darrien Pinkman, Senior Director of Global Corporate and Property Management Procurement, joined Tishman Speyer in 2018. He previously held leadership positions at Merck, where he was Executive Director of Global Technology and Global Marketing Services Procurement. In his current role, Darrien is responsible for creating global sourcing strategies that enable the efficient acquisition of goods […]

Laurinda Thomas is a Sr. Director of Sourcing within Global Procurement at ADP. Laurinda manages spend in the Non-IT commodity space and the Supplier Diversity program with responsibility for the development, implementation, and strategy as it relates to diverse business. With over 20 years’ experience in supply chain management, Laurinda is known for assisting top […]

Everyone loved the Business MatchMaking Sessions at our Business Opportunity Exchanges, so now we’re offering them year-round! We started our virtual B2B matching session in 2022 and have been offering them on a quarterly basis since. About the Event Business matchmaking is one of the many benefits of being a corporate member or a NMSDC-certified […]

Our annual partnership awards event celebrates success stories of collaborations between our corporate members and our Council-certified Asian, Black, Hispanic, and Native-American businesses in the New York and New Jersey area. About the Event The Council’s annual partnership awards reception honors the achievements of stellar minority-owned firms and corporate members who have gone above and […]

The Council offers year-long learning through our various business development workshops! Learn more about the industries relevant to your market and keep up-to-date with major industry players.. Business Workshops The Council’s educational programs offer a unique opportunity for businesses to participate in comprehensive business development workshops. These half-or-whole day events bring together fortune 500 companies, […]

November is Native American Heritage Month and we at the NY & NJ Minority Supplier Development Council celebrate and honor the diverse and rich cultures, histories, traditions, and contributions of our Native American communities. We proudly advocate for Native-American business owners and entrepreneurs throughout the year. We believe it is equally important to pay tribute to […]

Ha’no:wa:h, meaning “turtle”, is a representation of “Mother Earth”. The hard shell of the turtle represents perseverance and protection, and according to some Native American tribes, the turtle played a role in the “creation” story. Sam Campbell, majority owner of Hanowah, is part of the Cayuga Nation turtle clan. After years in the construction industry, interfacing directly with oil, gas, and power generation as a […]

Tribal Capital Markets, LLC is a full-service broker-dealer organized under the auspices of The Morongo Band of Mission Indians and is the largest Native American-owned broker-dealer in the United States. Utilizing its $5MM-plus of regulatory capital, the firm offers underwriting, sales distribution, and trading services in structured finance, corporate and agency debt, equity capital raising, […]

Josué Rivera is a tax and business advisory partner with Rivera & Montes CPA where he advises small and medium-size businesses with their accounting, compliance, and tax needs. Josue has over 22 years of professional experience, 19 of them with PwC. His expertise spans across multi-national companies, large compliance engagements, and large family-owned businesses in […]

The NY & NJ Minority Supplier Development Council has selected PSEG and Marisol Ramirez, PSEG Supplier Diversity Manager, as our Corporate Spotlight recipient for National Hispanic Heritage Month. The Council selected PSEG and Marisol for their many contributions to diversity, equity, and inclusion within PSEG and our communities. Ramirez (who goes by “Mari”), a proud […]

In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, The Council celebrates the prosperity of our nation’s Latinx/Hispanic communities, businesses, and business owners. For more than 30 years our country has officially recognized their rich history, customs, and contributions during this 30-day period from September 15 through October 15. 4.65 million Hispanic-owned businesses in the U.S. employ 2.82 […]

HAN IT Staffing was conceived in 2012 and incorporated in December of that same year. The two owners, and equal partners, of the company, are Megha Pandey and Ria Kalra. They had been friends for several years, and starting a firm together was a dream venture for them. HAN IT Staffing is a certified minority […]

Dawn Wells is a supply chain professional passionate about health equity. She holds a Masters of Public Health from Adelphi University and is currently Director of Supply Chain at Northwell Health, New York’s largest healthcare provider, serving NYC, Long Island, and Westchester.  In this role, she leads supply chain operations for the Health Systems’ Ambulatory […]

Empire State Development is happy to announce the New York State COVID-19 Pandemic Small Business Recovery Grant Program is NOW OPEN. This program was created to provide flexible grant assistance to currently viable small businesses, micro-businesses, and for-profit independent arts and cultural organizations in the State of New York that have experienced economic hardship due […]

Register for the 2021 Business Opportunity Exchange Register now for details regarding our signature MatchMaking sessions, interactive webinars, and unparalleled business opportunities. 2021 Networking for Scholarships Out of an abundance of caution, Council leadership decided to postpone our 24th annual Networking for Scholarships event to October of this year. Please mark your calendars and stay […]

Sameer Penakalapati is a serial entrepreneur dedicated to advising and investing in technology startups, specifically in the human resources and artificial intelligence space. In the past 10 years, Penakalapati has founded and acquired over six companies, including a staffing firm, multiple SaaS platforms, and a digital marketing agency, serving thousands of customers worldwide. He is […]

Hetal Parikh, president of Rangam Consultants Inc., fuels Rangam’s vision of “Employment for Everyone.” These words drive her to continually pave the path for boundless professional and personal achievements. Parikh seeks to create a people-centric workplace within Rangam and in corporations worldwide. Over the past 20 years, Rangam has become a high-performing, diverse supplier of workforce […]

Fantasia World, established in 1998, is a manufacturer, importer, and distributor of high-quality costume jewelry including necklaces, bracelets, rings, earrings, pins, anklets, and sets. Affiliated with state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities in China and India, Fantasia world partners employ over 960 individuals. With two wholesale stores in New York City, the company provides retailers with market insight […]

Firoz Lalji is chairman, CEO, and co-founder of Zones, one of the most reliable IT solutions providers in the industry. Throughout the company’s 30-year history, Lalji has provided the vision and leadership to transform Zones into a global solutions provider and award-winning business enterprise. In addition to Zones, Lalji owns the Fana Group of Companies, […]

Tronex International was founded in 1989 in response to the urgent need for superior quality disposable protective products as the AIDS crisis burgeoned. For more than 32 years, Tronex has steadily grown through a progressive business model that merges diverse, customized product solutions with a passionate service and response culture. Its organic growth has allowed Tronex […]

I started my career in printing at a graphics company as a porter. While at work one day, I asked Kevin, one of the graphic arts operators, if he could teach me what he knew. Kevin told me if I was serious about learning the job, I would have to purchase a mac computer system […]

“We must take action and live up to our ideals of liberty and justice for all. Are you with me?” On Tuesday, March 16, 2021, six Asian women and two others were killed in the Atlanta, Georgia suburbs. This tragic event has seemingly become part of a pattern of targeted racial bigotry in this country. […]

This Women’s History Month, we celebrate the incredible contributions of women to our communities, nation, and economy. Madame Vice President Harris exemplifies how women continually shatter glass ceilings and demonstrate incredible resilience and dedication. Powerful female leaders show us that anything is possible with courage and dedication, despite unequal pay, unequal contracts, unequal access, stereotypes, […]

Rondu Vincent is an Executive Director, Global Supplier Diversity & Sustainability at Bristol Myers Squibb. In this role, he leads an award-winning program that is responsible for all internal & external supplier diversity and small business operations, community outreach and strategy alignment with Bristol Myers Squibb’s inclusive Strategic Sourcing and Procurement Organization. Rondu is also […]

Hetal Parikh is famous for carrying out Rangam’s vision of “Employment for Everyone”. These three words continuously inspire her to pave the path for many achievements, on both personal and professional fronts. Hetal’s overall vision is to create a people-centric workplace within Rangam and in corporations around the globe. For the past 20 years, Rangam […]

MBE Spotlight Mirtes Lobaito is a successful business owner and entrepreneur with over 12 years of experience in the IT Staffing Industry. She founded her IT staffing company, AGM Tech Solutions, less than 2 years ago and closed 2020 with revenues of approximately $20 million. At the age of 20 Mirtes left her family and […]

During Black History Month, we celebrate the contributions of Black Americans to this country, while we acknowledge the obstacles that they overcame along the way. Although the journey toward equality started centuries ago, Black Americans and communities of color still face ongoing challenges. Minority business owners have been hit harder economically than non-minority business owners due to […]

Carla Hunter Ramsey serves as Global Senior Director of Supply Chain Corporate Social Responsibility for National Grid. National Grid, one of the largest publicly owned energy companies in the world, is also one of the nation’s largest electricity and gas delivery companies. In her role, she leads the coordination, integration, and implementation of all supply […]

Over 26 years ago, Rodney Evans founded Skyline Connections, Inc. (SCI) after attending The Million Man March. SCI is an IT solutions firm serving the financial industry as well as municipal and state governments. SCI’s services are designed to help clients plan and maximize their technology investments. SCI’s most recent offering is Epiphany cyber software. […]

2020 NY & NJ MSDC Advocate of the Year: Joy Wong Joy Wong, Corporate Vice President, Head of Supplier Diversity, New York Life New York Life won The Council’s 2020 National Corporation of the Year Award in no small part due to Joy Wong’s leadership as head of Supplier Diversity. Joy leads the program with a […]

2020 NY & NJ MSDC National Corporation of the Year: New York Life Annually, The Council recognizes exemplary achievement in the area of minority supplier development. The National Corporation of the Year award is regarded as the most significant honor a national corporate member can achieve for the utilization of Asian, Black, Hispanic and Native […]

2020 NY & NJ MSDC Local Corporation of the Year: New York Power Authority Annually, The Council recognizes exemplary achievement in the area of minority supplier development. The Local Corporation of the Year award is regarded as the most significant honor a local corporate member can achieve for the utilization of Asian, Black, Hispanic and […]

Mirtes Lobaito is a successful business owner and entrepreneur with over 12 years of experience in the IT Staffing Industry. She founded woman-owned AGM Tech Solutions – an IT staffing company, less than 2 years ago and recorded 2020 sales revenues of $20 million. At the age of 20, she left her family and friends […]

Calling all MBEs! We need your help. Want to support minority businesses while advancing the network? Join The Council’s Minority Business Enterprise Input Committee (MBEIC). The MBEIC – part of the National MBEIC, encourages you to control your destiny and help us identify and address our MBEs’ business needs. Under the leadership of our new […]

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day presents the perfect opportunity to reflect, commemorate, and celebrate this leader’s immense impact on the equality and well-being of all Americans. While we continue to strive for a perfect and equitable society, we should also recognize how far we’ve come since the merciless days of legal racial segregation. We […]

This month, the NY/NJ Minority Supplier Development Council proudly celebrates the contributions of Native Americans to our nation and economy.  Native American entrepreneurs founded international restaurant chains, the largest casinos, successful financing companies, and indigenous art stores across the country. Native American businesses had an estimated buying power of $115 billion in 2018. The more than five billion Native Americans in […]

Kimelberg PLLC is one of the only Native-American-owned law firms focused on the representation of venture-capital groups, high-technology start-ups, and corporate clients. Our clients include national and international investment groups and companies. We also have an active Native American practice representing Native-owned business and economic development organizations in various matters. Additionally, our team is involved […]

2020 Business Opportunity Exchange – REGISTER NOW Corporate Spotlight: MTA Michael J. Garner, Chief Diversity and Inclusion Officer at the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA), is a champion of the diversity market, making it his mission to create a more diverse business industry by empowering NYS certified Minority, Women-owned, and MTA certified Disadvantaged Business Enterprises across […]

Frans Johansson & Sweet Joy HachuelaCo-Founders of The Medici Group Sweet Joy Hachuela and Fran Johansson lead The Medici Group – a groundbreaking solutions firm that helps companies accelerate their innovation and growth by leveraging diversity. For the last 15 years, The Medici Group’s mission has been to create a world where they use their […]

Michael J. Garner, Chief Diversity and Inclusion Officer at the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA), is a champion of the diversity market, making it his mission to create a more diverse business industry by empowering NYS certified Minority, Women-owned, and MTA certified Disadvantaged Business Enterprises across New York through educational programming and access to increased procurement […]

This Hispanic Heritage Month, the Council extends our gratitude to the millions of Hispanic Americans who enrich our nation. Your voices tell stories from motherlands around the world. Your values teach us that family and community come first. Your drive to overcome the odds represents the true American dream. Your contributions to the Council and […]

Raul Suarez-Rodriguez currently serves as Director of Global Economic Inclusion and Supplier Diversity at Merck. In this role, Raul is responsible for driving diverse supplier inclusion, innovation, and economic growth through the lens of the company mission. Raul advances Merck’s supplier diversity by partnering with internal business leaders and external advocacy groups to grow mutual […]

Gladys Lopez is the Global Head of Supplier Diversity at BNY Mellon where she is responsible for supplier diversity, strategic planning, diversity sourcing and procurement, education, and outreach. Gladys holds a senior leadership role within BNY Mellon’s Global Supply Chain Management (GSCM) organization, and, in this capacity, she is the supplier diversity liaison to the […]

ETR Business Solutions, Inc., is a Hispanic Owned consultancy firm which specializes in guiding small and mid-sized companies to profitable growth. The firm brings great minds together and provides the strategic guidance every company needs to consistently make better decisions, deliver better business performance, and generate greater ROI. Under the leadership of Eliseo T. Rojas, […]

Salsa was founded in 2000 by Gigi De Jesus and certified as a minority-woman owned business in 2005. Over the years Salsa transitioned away from the fashion business to manufacture, distribute, and sell uniforms and supplies. Under the new name, Salsa Industrial Supplies, Gigi and her team earned a reputation as a reliable source for […]

2020 Business Opportunity Exchange – REGISTER NOW Corporate Spotlight: Unilever Unilever, the largest producer of soap in the world, which is especially essential during today’s COVID-19 pandemic, is a valued Corporate Member of NYNJ-NMSDC (The Council). This British-Dutch transnational consumer goods company, co-headquartered in London, England, and Rotterdam, Netherlands, also has a significant presence in Englewood […]

Unilever, the largest producer of soap in the world, which is especially essential during today’s COVID-19 pandemic, is a valued Corporate Member of NYNJ-NMSDC (The Council). This British-Dutch transnational consumer goods company, co-headquartered in London, England, and Rotterdam, Netherlands, also has a significant presence in Englewood Cliffs, New Jersey. Through Unilever’s partnership with The Council, the […]

Jessica Johnson is the President and CEO of Johnson Security Bureau, Inc., her family’s third-generation security firm. Within two short years of taking over the business, she led the firm to double its revenues and number of employees for three consecutive years, largely as a result of working as a subcontractor on projects for NYS agencies. […]

Francisco Cortes is the Chairman & CEO & of the global communications firm The Setroc Group, Inc. He is a proud U.S Army veteran, having served at the elite National Training Center in Ft. Irwin, California. Francisco currently serves as the President of the NJ State Veterans Chamber of Commerce and was recently appointed by […]

Javette Hines is the Head of Supply Chain Development, Inclusion, and Sustainability at Citi. Javette is also a member of Citi’s Enterprise Infrastructure Operations & Technology Diversity Operating Committee. As a NMSDC Board Member, Javette serves as the link between Citi’s ongoing diversity efforts and the Council’s nationwide network of certified MBEs. Javette talks about her […]

Pocstock will be hosting a virtual fireside chat celebrating and honoring Black fathers on June 19th at 7pm EST via Facebook Live at https://facebook.com/blackdadchallenge. The live stream will feature panelists including actor, comedian, and Internet personality King Keraun, who has appeared on HBO’s Insecure and ABC’s Black-ish, diversity leader Lamont Robinson, CEO of RLC Diversity/ […]

“It’s time to STOP talking about doing better.  We must DO better.” Today I write with a heavy heart and a troubled soul. I write not only as president and CEO of The Council – the largest organization in the New York/New Jersey region advocating for greater diversity and inclusivity for minority business enterprises (MBEs) […]

(New York, NY: April 2020): Wells Fargo & Company and the National Minority Supplier Development Council (NMSDC) have announced the creation of four Minority Business Leadership Academies. The year-long academy program is designed to enable minority suppliers to expand their business capabilities. “Minority-owned businesses are critical to America’s supply chain.  In today’s times of uncertainty […]

May is Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month. Congress chose this month to commemorate the immigration of the Japanese to the United States on May 7, 1843, and to mark the anniversary of the completion of the transcontinental railroad on May 10, 1869. The majority of the railworkers were Chinese immigrants. Since the 1800s, Asian Americans […]

You Matter To Us! We want you to know that the New York and New Jersey Minority Supplier Development Council, Inc. is closely monitoring the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) in our region and are concerned about the impact this may have on your business.  Like you, we are adjusting our practices to comply with government mandates […]

As President and CEO of Penda Aiken, Inc., she is responsible for establishing and maintaining the quality of staffing, compliance, monitoring and reporting services delivered to clients.  Known as a problem solver and strategic planner, Aiken serves as Director, Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce; Committee Chair: Workforce Development, Director, Court – Livingston – Schermerhorn Business Improvement […]

Stephanie Pennington is the corporate diversity director for LeChase Construction Services, LLC, a firm that ranks among the nation’s top 100 contractors. In that role, she champions internal diversity and inclusion initiatives and works to foster the company’s relationships with a broad range of small and diverse suppliers. Pennington has nearly 20 years of experience […]

New Location. Same Great Event. Meet The Councils’ Board of Directors MBE Spotlight: Cheryl McCants, M.S, M.A. Cheryl McCants, Change Agent, President & CEO Impact Consulting Enterprises Cheryl McCants, bilingual (fluent in Spanish) and the holder of four college degrees, has been on an upward trajectory all her life. Just when you think she cannot […]

This Black History Month, February 1 through February 29, 2020, propels us into a new decade of opportunities, and a season of communication and collaboration. It’s time for us to work harder to diminish hatred in our nation and increase peace, to eliminate negative racial stereotypes and perpetuate positive role models. We at The Council […]

The Council has experienced a budgetary shortfall, which has left us with no other option than to undertake a reduction in force. Effective December 9, 2019 we eliminated three positions from The Council’s New York office: The Associate Director, Corporate Services; Director of Conferences & Events; and the Associate Director of MBE Certification. We do not relish taking this […]

Ongweoweh Corp is a Native American-owned, pallet management company that provides pallet and packaging procurement, recycling services, and supply chain optimization programs. The company, headquartered in Ithica, New York, also offers custom reporting along with data and trend analysis for a very diverse customer base of Fortune 500 companies. Since Ongweoweh was founded in 1978 […]

2019 Partnership Awards Gala This year’s Partnership Awards Gala will be an elegant night you don’t want to miss! We will come together at Cipriani 25 Broadway and celebrate another year of remarkable business achievements. Join us for an evening of splendor and surprise as MBEs and corporate members unmask their potential. You just might […]

During National Hispanic Heritage Month, The Council celebrates with intense vigor and respect, the numerous contributions and achievements made by Hispanic and Latin American business owners. They continue to profoundly and positively influence our country through their strong commitment to family, faith, hard work, and service. For centuries those of Hispanic heritage have made a […]

Angela M. Guzman is the Director of Supplier Diversity at NBCUniversal. As the director of this important initiative, she develops partnerships that promote the use of minority-, women-, veteran-, LGBT-, and disabled-owned businesses company-wide. Angela serves as a lead liaison between NBCUniversal, the diverse supplier community and diverse supplier-advocacy groups. She brings over 16 years […]

Gabriel Gonzalez developed an interest in business and culture from a very young age. As the son of immigrant parents, he experienced the realities of making it in a country with no extended family, while being unfamiliar with the culture and language. Determined to honor his parents’ sacrifices, Gabriel dedicated himself to his studies and […]

New York – September 10, 2019 – The New York & New Jersey Minority Supplier Development Council is proud to announce the Minority Supplier of the Year award winners for 2019. The winning minority-owned business enterprises (MBEs) are: CLASS I Division Winner (Annual revenues less than $1M) McPherson, Berry & Associates headquartered in Decatur, Georgia, […]

Mark Your Calendars! Welcome to the Team The Council is delighted to welcome our newest team member: Director of Communications, Lizzette Santos. This dynamic, driven, well-read, and exuberant leader leverages public relations and marketing communications to promote The Council’s mission, programs, and achievements to key stakeholders and the communities we serve. Lizzette’s career has spanned many global […]

Tronex International, Inc. is a multiple award-winning company, founded in New Jersey in 1989 by entrepreneur Donald L. Chu, that delivers superior safety solutions on a global scale. Tronex is built on an unwavering vision of being a world-class direct manufacturer and marketing enterprise. As the company celebrates its 30th anniversary, that vision is a […]

Mark Your Calendars! Council Feedback Survey Are you looking for more innovative services from us? Does your company provide an innovative service to the diverse supplier community that The Council and our network should know about? Please take a minute to complete this quick survey. Your feedback will be used to improve experiences for everyone. Mission Accomplished […]

March serves as Women’s History Month, as women now represent more than 50 percent of the U.S. population. The Council embraces this month of celebration and lifts up women business owners who command a larger piece of the global economic pie. In fact, last year, 40 percent of all U.S.-based businesses were women-owned. Businesses owned […]

A selfless, humble, brave, and courageous visionary, the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. sacrificed his life for the betterment of others.  This month, The Council celebrates Dr. King’s birthday and recommits to working diligently on behalf of our clients – minority-owned enterprises (MBEs) and our corporate members. Dr. King stood for something that remains […]

Oh, what a marvelous 45th anniversary year we have had! 2018 was filled with tremendous celebration, which culminated with a grand gala, productivity, and progress. It was all because of you. We are grateful for your sustained involvement in our ambitious endeavors to make local, national, and global impact. Our constituents include over 100 corporations, […]

7Gen Waste Logistics, LLC (“7Gen”) is a Native-American owned waste and commodity-management company. 7Gen, sister company to Ongweoweh Corp, and is owned by Ongweoweh’s president & CEO, Justin Bennett. Mr. Bennett’s native roots run deep, with both parents stemming from Haudenosaunee from the Cattaraugus Indian Reservation, located 30 miles southwest of Buffalo, NY.  His father […]

Tribal Capital Markets, LLC, founded in 1995, is the largest American-Indian Tribally (AIT) owned full-service broker-dealer in the United States. It is a Nationally Certified Minority Business Enterprise, headquartered in Summit, New Jersey, with satellite offices in New York, California, Georgia, Idaho, Florida, North Carolina, Tennessee, and Montreal, Canada. The majority owner is the Morongo Band […]

Contact: Holly Houston, Impact Consulting Enterprises415-583-3706 Cheryl McCants, Impact Consulting Enterprises973-337-2028 New York, November 1, 2018 – The New York & New Jersey Minority Supplier Development Council (The CouncilTM) is celebrating 45 years of facilitating prosperous collaborations between major corporations and Council-certified Asian, Black, Hispanic, and Native-American businesses in the New York-New Jersey area. Today, […]

New York – September 12, 2018 – The New York & New Jersey Minority Supplier Development Council is proud to announce the Supplier of the Year award winners for 2018. The winners this year are: Zebra Strategies (Class II – annual revenues between $1million and $10 million) CQfluency (Class III – annual revenues between $10 […]

Mr. Emilio Mahomar is a visionary and strategist with over 35 years of experience as an executive and entrepreneur. A native of El Salvador and a U.S. citizen, he began his career in the New York Mercantile Exchange (NYMEX) in 1983.  There he managed trading operations for major accounts including Cargill International, Smith Barney, Dean […]

Kathleen Castore has worked for Sanofi for almost twenty years.  She has held positions in marketing operations, purchasing, and procurement, and is currently Head of Supplier Diversity & Sustainability, NA Procurement Excellence.  She is responsible for the strategy to increase Sanofi’s opportunities to buy locally, regionally, and nationally ensuring a good source of supply while […]

John Lau is the president of Appliedinfo Partners, Inc. (AIP) Lau and his wife, Betty, started  AIP in 1990. Lau also has recently created two “innovative” divisions: D2 Life Sciences and D2TEAM-Sim. D2 Life Sciences helps organizations advance understanding of their companies’ science through creative, digital storytelling. This division produces eye-catching and innovative rich media solutions […]

Katherine O’Hara is founder and president of The O’Hara Project, a MBE, WBE and CPUC-certified firm offering marketing, public relations, and experiential services. Founded in 2011, The O’Hara Project represents clients ranging from Fortune 100, to start-ups to non-profits. Katherine, the daughter of Cuban immigrants, has been honored with over 200 industry awards including Business Woman […]

Walker SCM offers all facets of global transportation, logistics optimization, procurement and supply chain integration. Since 1989, the company has evolved as a key Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) player in the logistics industry with a global reach, operating directly and through partnerships in over 25 countries worldwide. On the strength of a sterling track record […]