MBN USA

October 25, 2021

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Apple joined BR in 2017

“Diverse business owners deserve a fair shot and a fair share. We will continue to ensure that we search for and include businesses that historically were denied opportunities.” — Scott Vowels, manager supplier diversity

Q: When did your company begin its supplier diversity program?

A: 1993.

Q: Can you tell us a bit about your supplier diversity program history?

A: At  Apple, we take pride in being focused on details and stretching for results. Our steady increases in spend with diverse suppliers are evidence reflecting that work.

We take our mission seriously. As a national and regional member of [National Minority Supplier Development Council Inc.], [Women’s Business Enterprise National Council], National Veteran Business Development Council], [National LGBT Chamber of Commerce] and Disability:IN — along with being an active member of the Billion Dollar Roundtable — we help steer and influence supplier diversity efforts and governance. 

Q: Why did your company decide to become a BDR member? 

A: The companies that are a part of BDR represent some of the best-in-class supplier diversity programs, and we needed to be a part of that cohort.

Q: Besides having a $1 billion annual spend with diverse suppliers, what does it take to be a BDR company? 

A: $1 billion in direct annual spend with certified diverse suppliers is just the tip of the iceberg. In addition, we have: 

• An established supplier diversity program since 1993.

• A robust Tier II program.

• Membership within [nongovernmental organizations] recognized by BDR.

• Active participation in various committees within BDR that help shape the landscape in the supplier diversity industry. 

Q: How has your company benefited from BDR membership?

A: There is a saying “You are the average of the five people you spend the most time with.” Being “in the room” with our fellow BDR-member companies allows us to learn from, compete with and share with other like-minded companies dedicated to advancing the supplier diversity industry. 

Q: What advice would you give to corporations that would like to become BDR members?

A: Be intentional about what you are trying to achieve. For example, Apple’s Racial Equity and Justice Initiative, or REJI, is an effort to address systemic racism and expand opportunities for communities of color across the country. REJI programs make an impact in three key areas: education, criminal justice and economic empowerment. To learn more about REJI, visit apple.com/racial-equity-justice-initiative.

Q: What’s your vision for the future of minority business development and supply chain diversity?

A: Diverse business owners deserve a fair shot and a fair share. We will continue to ensure that we search for and include businesses that historically were denied opportunities.

To learn more about Apple’s supplier diversity program, visit apple.com/procurement.