A: Supplier Diversity is the intentional inclusion of historically underutilized businesses in a company’s supply base to achieve innovation; cost reduction; and revenue growth objectives. This may include businesses owned, operated and controlled by: ethnic minorities, women, LGBT, veterans, disabled and others.
A:Ford Motor Company continues to be a leader when it comes to minority, woman and veteran owned businesses. The SDI program has been benchmarked as a model for best practices by Fortune 500 corporations in a wide range of industries. Since its inception, Ford’s SDI program has developed and implemented processes for the inclusion of certified diverse suppliers, provided access to new business opportunities and enterprise development to ensure the profitability, viability and sustainability of diverse business enterprises. Ford understands the value of ensuring that its suppliers represent all segments of the business community and mirror those communities in which it does business.Ford’s dedication and commitment to develop and maintain a diverse supply base was established decades ago, and will continue for decades to come. Ford is proud of the achievements of our SDI program. Through this partnership our SDI program will continue to create a virtuous cycle of wealth creation throughout the value chain. We recognize that this is a never ending journey and we remain committed to working together, with our supplier partners to deliver great products, strong business and a better world.
A: The Ford Supplier Diversity & Inclusion team utilizes several approaches to identify certified diverse suppliers that can compete for our opportunities. We leverage organizations that seek to advocate for and to connect diverse suppliers. As corporate members, we have access to databases that supplement our face-to-face interaction at various events.
A: First you must register your company’s information in our database at https://ford.supplierone.co/
A: Your business must be a certified diverse supplier by one of the following certifying organizations:
  • National Minority Supplier Development Council (NMSDC) or a regional affiliate
  • Canadian Aboriginal & Minority Supplier Council (CAMSC) (Canada)
  • Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC) (USA) or a regional affiliate WBE Canada (Canada)
  • National Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce (NGLCC) or a regional chamber
  • National Veteran Business Development Council (NVBDC)
  • Department of Veteran Affairs (VOSB)
  • WeConnect International
  • Disability:IN
    1. Regardless of size, your company must physically be located within the United States or Canada with the exception of business certified with WeConnect International.
    2. The business must be 51% owned, operated, and controlled by a minority, woman, LGBT person, veteran, or persons with disability with U.S. Citizenship or Legal Resident Alien Status.
    3. Your certification must be valid per the criteria set for by the certifying body listed above.
A: Yes, if you qualify as a U.S. small business based on the applicable small business size standards established by the Small Business Administration (SBA). 
A: Minority Business Enterprises (MBE’s) – Include businesses that are certified by an approved agency to be at least 51% owned, operated and controlled by a minority individual or group. In the case of publicly held businesses, at least 51% of the stock must be owned by a minority or minority group members. Minorities include persons of color who are Asian-Pacific Americans, Sub-Continent Asian Americans, African Americans, Hispanic Americans and Native Americans. Foreign-owned firms operating in the U.S. are not included in these categories. Women Business Enterprises (WBE’s) – Include businesses that are certified by an approved agency to be at least 51% owned, operated and controlled by a non-minority woman or group of non-minority women who are U.S. citizens. In the case of publicly held businesses, at least 51% of the stock must be owned by a woman or women. Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, or Transgender Business Enterprises (LGBT) – Include businesses that are certified by an approved agency to be at least 51% owned, operated and controlled by an LGBT person or persons who are U.S. citizens. Veteran Owned Business – Include businesses that are certified by an approved agency to be at least 51% owned, operated and controlled by a veteran or veterans who are U.S. citizens. In the case of a publicly held business, at least 51% of the stock must be owned by a veteran or veterans. Also acceptable are veteran discharge papers.
A: Once the Profile registration is completed (including the Evaluation questions), your profile will proceed through the 5 phase process for vetting suppliers.
A: If your company has not been contacted for a potential procurement opportunity, either the opportunity has not yet occurred, we do not have a need for the product/service your company provides, or a match between your company’s product/service and our procurement needs has not been identified. Please remain patient as procurement opportunities may take time to develop.
A:
Phase 1

Registration Confirmation

Phase 2

Initial Assessment

Phase 3

SDD Interview capability

Phase 4

Buyer/Business Owner

Phase 5

Opportunity Assessment

A: No. the Supplier Diversity & Inclusion department assist buyers within Ford to identify potential small and/or diverse suppliers. Once these suppliers are identified, the buyer makes the final decision based upon the need for the product or service as well as the quality and price.
A: Our Process is designed in the most efficient way for supplier information to be reviewed by our Supplier Diversity team and buyers. If, during any steps of the process, you experience technical problems or have questions, email us.
A:
A:
  • Small Business Association (SBA)
  • Mid-South Minority Business Council Continuum (MMBC)
Please Download the PDF to know more about our Programs