President's Message

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 generations to come. 

Each March, The Council celebrates the remarkable contributions women make to our society, while spotlighting influential yet underrecognized historical figures. 

While we commemorate these achievements, we must also acknowledge the challenges ahead. Across the nation, efforts to undermine Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives threaten the very progress that generations of women—and all marginalized communities—have fought tirelessly to achieve. The shifting political climate makes it more critical than ever to reaffirm our commitment to equitable opportunities and economic empowerment. We must not forget that there are approximately 14 million women-owned businesses in the U.S. that generate $2.7 trillion dollars in revenue each year. 

This year I encourage all of us to reflect on the influential women who have shaped our journeys and to discover the remarkable stories of the trailblazers we’ve featured here. 

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Audre Lorde, born in New York City to Caribbean immigrant parents, was able to rise up and emerge as a formidable poet, essayist, and activist who challenged several forms of oppression. While confronting racism, sexism, homophobia, and illness throughout her life, she remained committed to speaking truth to power and creating solidarity across differences. After publishing groundbreaking works like Sister Outsider and The Cancer Journals, she was honored with numerous awards. Lorde became an influential voice in feminist and civil rights movements, and in her famous 1977 speech at the National Women’s Conference, she emphasized the importance of intersectionality, declaring: “I have come to believe over and over again that what is most important to me must be spoken, made verbal and shared, even at the risk of having it bruised or misunderstood. For it is not difference which immobilizes us, but silence. And there are so many silences to be broken.”

Sojourner Truth, born into slavery as Isabella Baumfree in New York, transformed herself from an enslaved woman into a powerful abolitionist and women’s rights advocate during the turbulent period before the Civil War. After escaping slavery with her infant daughter in 1826, she successfully sued for her son’s freedom, becoming one of the first Black women to win such a case against a white man. Her famous “Ain’t I a Woman?” speech delivered at the 1851 Women’s Rights Convention in Akron, Ohio, eloquently challenged both racial and gender prejudices, declaring that women deserved equal rights to men. During the Civil War, she helped recruit Black troops for the Union Army while advocating for land redistribution to former slaves. She once proclaimed, “I feel safe in the midst of my enemies, for the truth is all powerful and will prevail,” a testament to her unwavering belief in justice that inspired generations of activists to follow.

Mae Mallory, a fearless civil rights activist and revolutionary, made history as a powerful advocate for Black liberation and self-defense in the face of racist violence. Known for her unwavering dedication to the freedom struggle, Mallory courageously fought against educational inequality in Harlem schools and emerged as a pivotal figure in her “Crusade for Justice.” Through her engagement with Robert F. Williams and the Freedom Now Party, in particular, she challenged mainstream civil rights techniques with her audacious position on armed resistance for Black safety. Mallory’s resilience was further demonstrated during her wrongful imprisonment and subsequent legal battle following the Monroe case, where she continued organizing despite severe persecution. Her legacy transcends her individual actions showcasing an unyielding commitment to Black freedom and community empowerment.

Grace Lee Boggs, a revered activist, philosopher, and author, left an indelible mark on the fight for civil rights, labor rights, and social justice. A visionary thinker and organizer, she dedicated over seven decades to advancing racial and economic equality, particularly in Detroit’s grassroots movements. Known for her profound belief in the power of community and self-determination, Boggs worked alongside laborers, activists, and marginalized communities to reimagine society through activism and education. Her legacy transcends activism alone, embodying a lifelong commitment to transformation, solidarity, and the pursuit of justice through both thought and action.

These are just a handful of the remarkable women who have fought to help minorities overcome oppressive obstacles. We honor and commend them for their courage and commitment to making the world a better place for future generations. 

Let this Women’s History Month be more than a celebration—let it be a call to action. Together, we can honor the past, empower the present, and build a future where all women, regardless of background, have the opportunity to succeed.

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At The Council, our goal is to help foster more opportunities for minority women-owned businesses to find success, regardless of the time of year. We invite you to check out our list of Council-certified women-owned businesses and reach out to those listed to create new business relationships. 

President's Message

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, and opportunity.

At the Council, our mission has always been to advance diversity and inclusion within the business community. We strive to create pathways that connect minority-owned businesses with the resources, networks, and opportunities they need to succeed. These connections are not just transactions; they are partnerships that reflect the power of mutual support and collective growth.

Black History Month is a powerful reminder that no business stands alone. Success comes when we uplift each other, share knowledge, and foster environments where everyone has a chance to thrive. Within our network, we’ve witnessed countless examples of businesses coming together to mentor, partner, and amplify each other’s strengths. These stories inspire us and demonstrate the immense potential of unity and shared purpose.

If you are looking to make new connections with certified African-American owned businesses, we’ve collated a full list of businesses certified with the Council below.

As we move forward, I encourage every member of our community to reflect on how we can continue to champion one another. Seek out partnerships, invest in relationships, and support initiatives that embody the values of inclusivity and empowerment. Together, we can build a legacy that mirrors the courage and vision of those we celebrate this month.

Let us honor Black History Month by committing to the ideals it represents: resilience, innovation, and the unwavering belief in a brighter future for all.

In the words of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., “We are caught in an inescapable network of mutuality, tied in a single garment of destiny. Whatever affects one directly, affects all indirectly.”

President's Message

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 involved in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs to be placed on paid administrative leave, with plans to eliminate these positions by the end of the month.

This directive mandates the closure of all DEI offices and the termination of related initiatives across federal agencies.

This action is part of a broader effort to dismantle DEI programs within the federal government, which the administration has criticized as discriminatory and wasteful. The executive order also aims to end affirmative action in federal contracting, emphasizing a return to “merit-based” hiring practices.

These federal changes mirror recent trends in the private sector, where several major corporations, including Ford, Walmart, and Lowe’s, have scaled back or eliminated their DEI initiatives. This convergence of public and private sector shifts underscores a significant transformation in the support systems that have aimed to benefit MBEs in recent years.

The message we’ve received is clear: we cannot afford to depend solely on programs or government policies to ensure our success.

At the Council, we understand the frustration and concern these developments may cause. It’s natural to feel uncertain when support systems evolve or diminish. However, it is precisely in these moments that MBEs must rise to the challenge.

The reality is that certification as a Minority Business Enterprise has never guaranteed success. A certification might open doors, but it is the quality of your product or service that keeps those doors open. It is your work ethic, innovation, and ability to deliver exceptional value that will sustain and grow your business in any environment. As we reflect on the lessons of the past and face the realities of the present, this truth has never been more critical.

For the year ahead, I urge MBEs to focus on the following:

• Excellence in Delivery: Ensure your products and services meet and exceed the expectations of your clients. Quality will always be your most reliable advocate.
• Adaptability: Markets evolve, and customer needs change. Stay attuned to these shifts and position your business to address emerging opportunities.
• Building Relationships: Cultivate strong relationships with clients, partners, and stakeholders. Trust and credibility are earned through consistency and results.
• Strategic Investment: Invest in your business—whether it’s through technology, training, or expanding your network. Be prepared to compete and excel in any economic climate.
• Advocacy and Unity: While individual effort is essential, collective action remains powerful. Engage with organizations like the NY & NJ Minority Supplier Development Council to ensure your voice is heard and your interests are represented.

The political and economic landscape may shift, but the principles of good business remain constant. Let’s commit to building enterprises that are not only minority-owned but also universally respected for their excellence and impact. By focusing on what we can control—the quality of our work and the strength of our business practices—we will not only survive but thrive, regardless of external challenges.

President's Message

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, “We must come to see that the end we seek is a society at peace with itself, a society that can live with its conscience,” resonate as deeply today as they did decades ago.

At the Council, we are committed to building a society that aligns with these principles. Dr. King’s vision calls on us to create a world of justice, unity, and fairness—values central to our mission. By fostering relationships rooted in mutual respect, ethical practices, and a spirit of cooperation, we can bring these ideals to life in our work.

In 2025, collaboration among businesses is key. When we come together, share resources, and support each other’s growth, we can all succeed. This unity is the foundation for a more inclusive and prosperous future. By helping one another, we strengthen not only our businesses but also the broader community.

Our work centers on breaking down barriers, creating opportunities for certified suppliers, driving economic equity, and building sustainable supply chains. This year, our theme—“Decreasing Systematic Business Growth Barriers: Increasing Sustainable Supply Chains”—focuses on the critical role of systemic change in achieving these goals.

As we reflect on Dr. King’s legacy, let us commit to advocacy and action. True change requires more than words; it demands that we use our influence to challenge inequities and support the advancement of underrepresented communities. The Council remains steadfast in empowering certified suppliers and advancing economic justice, but this mission relies on the collective effort of our community.

We are grateful for the progress we’ve made together in promoting diversity in business. Each step forward is a testament to the dedication of our partners and advocates who share our vision. Yet, there is still much work to do.

Let this day of remembrance be a reminder of the responsibility we have—to lead with integrity, to collaborate for mutual success, and to ensure we are building a society truly at peace with itself.

President's Message

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 and inclusion has made a lasting impact on our efforts throughout the year. We deeply appreciate your partnership and look forward to continuing our work together in 2025.

This has been a milestone year for The Council, brimming with transformative events that united business leaders, corporate partners, and advocates in pursuit of progress and collaboration. Among our achievements, the Upstate New York Supplier Diversity Summit in Rochester in January stood out as a testament to our commitment to statewide inclusion and set the tone for the year. This groundbreaking event welcomed over 300 participants, sparking dynamic discussions, fostering connections, and reinforcing our efforts to expand opportunities across the region.

This year, we also introduced our first-ever four-part webinar series in collaboration with Tompkins Ventures, which received overwhelming positive feedback. These sessions provided actionable insights and empowered businesses to achieve greater success. Building on this momentum, we continued our popular “How to Do Business With” webinars, welcoming MGM, Pfizer, and Truist to share their expertise. These interactive events offered invaluable opportunities for our MBEs to connect with major corporations, gain practical knowledge, and understand the pathways to securing contracts. Their success reaffirms our commitment to fostering meaningful engagements, and we’re excited to carry these initiatives into 2025.

In April, we held our Business Opportunity Exchange, hosted by Prudential Financial. This event was an excellent platform for minority-owned businesses to connect with corporations, explore new opportunities, and foster long-lasting partnerships. It was a dynamic and engaging start to what would be a year of success.

In the summer, we gathered once again for our Biz Connect event, this time aboard the Horizon’s Edge Yacht. This unique setting offered our members the chance to build connections while enjoying beautiful views and meaningful conversations. It was a fantastic evening that highlighted the power of networking in a joyous and scenic atmosphere.

In September, we celebrated the best MBE supporters in the industry at our Partnership Awards Gala at Gotham Hall. This event was a true testament to the hard work and dedication of those leading the way in diversity and inclusion. Congratulations again to our honorees! Please take a moment to view the attached document showcasing our 2024 Partnership Awards Gala winners, whose achievements continue to inspire us all.

View the Award Winners →

We wrapped up our signature events with our 27th Annual Networking for Scholarships event, an important occasion that focused on strengthening relationships and providing support for scholarships. It was a fitting close to a year of celebration and empowerment, as we worked together to ensure a brighter future for the next generation of leaders.

This fall, Northwell Health hosted our Healthcare Symposium, bringing together a distinguished panel of speakers and industry experts to explore innovative strategies for advancing supplier diversity in healthcare. The event provided invaluable insights and fostered meaningful discussions to help drive change in the industry.

As the year drew to a close, we partnered with Citi to host our Sustainability Symposium in December. This virtual event featured speakers from around the world, emphasizing the importance of aligning business operations with sustainable goals while fostering economic growth. It was a powerful finale to a year dedicated to progress, collaboration, and impact.

Throughout 2024, we had the privilege of welcoming over 300 new MBEs and 5 new Corporate Members to The Council. This growth is a direct result of the support of our community and the collective commitment to advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion. We are excited to continue collaborating with all of our new and existing members as we move into 2025, and we look forward to seeing the impact these new relationships will have in the years to come.

Looking ahead, we are excited to announce the tentative dates for our 2025 Signature Events:

• Business Opportunity Exchange: April 23, 2025
• Biz Connect: Summer 2025
• Networking for Scholarships: Fall 2025
• Partnership Awards Gala: October 10, 2025

Our theme for 2025, “Decreasing Systematic Business Growth Barriers: Increasing Sustainable Supply Chains,” will shape our work throughout the year. This theme emphasizes our commitment to addressing the systemic barriers that prevent diverse suppliers from reaching their full potential. At the same time, it underscores the need for sustainability within supply chains, ensuring that growth is not only achievable but also responsible and inclusive. As we tackle these challenges in 2025, we will continue to advocate for solutions that create a more equitable and sustainable future for all businesses, large and small.

In 2025, The Council is excited to continue expanding its reach with events across New York State, Northern and Central New Jersey, and beyond. This year, we’re also joining forces with the Eastern MSDC to bring impactful programming to Southern New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Delaware, further strengthening our regional presence.

We’re kicking off the year with another Upstate New York Supplier Diversity Summit in Rochester, New York, setting the stage for another year of meaningful connections and opportunities. 

Join us on February 5, 2025 in Rochester, NY → 

As we prepare for another exciting year, we encourage you to stay connected. To stay up to date with the latest news, event details, and opportunities, sign up for our newsletter, and follow us on social media.

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If you would like to contribute to The Council for our 2025 calendar year, you can check out our sponsorship packages below. We offer a wide range of packages to fit any budget. 

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Thank you again for making 2024 such a remarkable year. We look forward to continuing our journey together in 2025 as we break down barriers, increase opportunities, and build a stronger, more sustainable future. Here’s to another successful year ahead!

President's Message

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 thankful for the dedication and passion of our members, corporate partners, and advocates who champion supplier diversity and economic inclusion. Your commitment strengthens businesses, creates opportunities, and builds bridges that unite us in shared success.

As we look ahead, let us continue to nurture the relationships that have brought us this far, while welcoming new opportunities to grow and innovate. Together, we are building a legacy that will empower generations to come.

As we reflect on our many blessings, I am reminded of these words from Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.: “Life’s most persistent and urgent question is, ‘What are you doing for others?'”

This question serves as a timeless reminder of the importance of service and gratitude — not only for what we receive but for the chance to contribute to others’ success and well-being.

May your Thanksgiving be filled with joy, peace, and the warmth of those you hold dear. On behalf of The Council, thank you for being part of this journey.

President's Message

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.

Veterans possess unique strengths—leadership, discipline, and teamwork—that make them exceptional entrepreneurs and business leaders. At The Council, we are proud to support veteran-owned businesses, whose contributions enrich our economy and embody the spirit of service in industries such as technology, logistics, and consulting.

We encourage our corporate partners and suppliers to explore opportunities to engage with veteran-owned businesses, creating connections that honor their service while driving innovation and growth. By working together, we can build a more inclusive business community that reflects the values veterans fought to protect.

On behalf of The Council, thank you to all veterans for your service. We honor your dedication and are committed to supporting your continued success.

Happy Veterans Day!

President's Message

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 country. This month, we honor their resilience, strength, and leadership across business, governance, environmental stewardship, and beyond.

For centuries, Indigenous communities have preserved and passed down knowledge, culture, and ways of life, contributing to advancements in science, the arts, and public service. Today, Indigenous-owned businesses are thriving and making a difference in industries such as technology, agriculture, and green energy—bringing innovative solutions and sustainable practices to the broader business community.

Empowering Indigenous Entrepreneurs

As we recognize Native American Heritage Month, it’s important that we also explore opportunities to support Indigenous-owned businesses. Whether through mentorship, procurement, or strategic partnerships, businesses can help Indigenous entrepreneurs overcome challenges and unlock their full potential. These leaders bring values of sustainability, innovation, and community-centered growth—principles that align with responsible business practices and create shared success.

At The Council, we encourage our network of corporate partners and certified suppliers to connect with Indigenous-owned businesses. Supporting these entrepreneurs is not only a way to honor their heritage but also an investment in a more inclusive and prosperous future.

Moving Forward with Purpose

This month reminds us that diversity and inclusion should remain at the heart of business practices. Indigenous Peoples have faced generations of adversity, but their spirit and contributions continue to shape our nation’s history and future. By recognizing and supporting Indigenous entrepreneurs, we foster empowerment and promote sustainable growth that benefits everyone.

Let’s use this month to deepen our relationships with Indigenous communities, champion Tribal sovereignty, and create spaces where Indigenous businesses can thrive. At The Council, we believe that diversity in business drives innovation, growth, and success—and it’s through inclusion that we all move forward together.

This November and beyond, let’s honor the past, celebrate the present, and commit to building a more inclusive future.

Happy Native American Heritage Month!

President's Message

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 the vital role that Hispanic-owned businesses play in driving economic growth and fostering innovation.

While looking toward Hispanic Heritage Month, I came across a quote from Justice Sonia Sotomayor, “I don’t measure myself by others’ expectations or let others define my worth.” This powerful message speaks to the heart of what Hispanic Heritage Month represents—the strength to define one’s own path and the perseverance to rise above limitations. Hispanic entrepreneurs, visionaries, and trailblazers have consistently demonstrated this strength, driving progress and paving the way for generations to come.

Hispanic Heritage Month is not just a time for celebration; it is a call to action. It serves as a reminder that everyone has a role to play in supporting Hispanic-owned and minority-owned businesses, not just during this month but every day. Whether as a corporate partner looking to diversify a supply chain, a fellow entrepreneur seeking collaboration, or a consumer making purchasing decisions, support for these businesses is crucial.

The Council is proud to support and champion these businesses, recognizing the incredible value they bring to the table. You can view a full list of Hispanic Owned Businesses who are certified with The Council below. 

The Council remains committed to fostering a business environment where diversity is celebrated and opportunities for success are provided to those who are ready to take it. As Hispanic Heritage Month is celebrated, let us all continue to define our own worth and rise above expectations.

Thank you for doing your part to contribute to a better future. I look forward to the new connections, inspiring stories, and collective growth this month will bring.

President's Message

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 national symbol of African American freedom and the celebration of our culture, resilience, and progress.

While African Americans have celebrated this day with family gatherings, music, food, and community events for the last 150 years, it was just three years ago that it was officially recognized as a federal holiday — finally honoring the strength and contributions of our ancestors on a national scale. This declaration has allowed for more education on the significance of this holiday and has opened up conversations about race, equity, and the work that still needs to be done.

As we celebrate Juneteenth, it is essential to reflect on the progress we have made and acknowledge the work that still lies ahead. Juneteenth is not just a celebration of freedom, but a call-to-action for the future. It’s an affirmation that despite the most painful parts of our history, change is possible.

We do not celebrate the day the Emancipation Proclamation was signed because, as Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. once said: “no one is free until we are all free.” He may not have been talking about slavery, but the message is the same no matter what type of oppression we’re facing. Let today be a reminder that freedom and equality must be actively pursued and defended. And that while Juneteenth is a time of celebration, it is also a recommitment to the values of justice and equality.