The “New” Business Case

Abstract

The US Census Bureau has repeatedly confirmed that consumers are becoming more diverse, and companies are taking notice. Ford Motor Company, for example, has been a leader in supplier diversity spending in the automotive industry for years. Ford also benefits from the diverse thinking and fresh ideas born from these relationships. Ford’s diverse suppliers have provided substantial contributions to its growth in the form of new product and technology development, from sustainable products to fuel-efficient vehicle technologies. Ford recognizes how vital small and minority-owned businesses are to the US economy and to the identity of the Ford Motor Company. Ford understands and promotes within its company the direct and positive economic impact that minority business procurement has on the communities where it does business. For them, investing in these minority-owned businesses helps build brand loyalty from the companies and communities that directly benefit from the jobs and the wealth created by their investment in supplier diversity.