May 24th 2024.
The National Football League has just announced an exciting expansion of their current initiative. This program aims to provide businesses owned by individuals from underserved communities with opportunities to benefit from games hosted by teams within the sports franchise. In a news release shared with BLACK ENTERPRISE, the league introduced NFL Source, a new evolution of their supplier diversity commitments. This initiative is designed to set a standard for how the NFL and its partners support underrepresented businesses throughout the year, both locally and nationally.
Jonathan Beane, the NFL Senior Vice President and Chief Diversity & Inclusion Officer, expressed his enthusiasm for NFL Source. He explained, "This program will not only allow us to reinvest funds into the communities where our clubs and offices are located, but also give exposure to a greater number of businesses." Beane believes that doing business with the NFL can provide unparalleled exposure and boost local economic mobility for these businesses.
For over a decade, the league has been intentional about promoting inclusive event-based suppliers. They have worked closely with the Super Bowl Host Committee through programs like Emerging Business and Business Connect. These programs focus on subcontracting opportunities for major events. Atlanta Falcons Owner and Chairman, Arthur M. Blank, shared his thoughts on the expansion of the NFL's supplier diversity program. He stated, "This aligns perfectly with our vision to uplift and provide opportunities to local and diverse businesses. The Falcons have always been dedicated to working alongside the league, and we are excited for the official launch of NFL Source."
In addition to this expansion, the NFL has also announced a partnership with U.S. Black Chambers, Inc. This collaboration will help businesses across the country obtain the necessary certifications to do business with the league. Talisha Bekavac, Executive Vice President of the United States Black Chambers, Inc., emphasized the importance of supplier diversity. She stated, "It's about recognizing the value of local supply chains and small businesses, which are the backbone of the American economy. We are thrilled to partner with the NFL to create wealth and economic mobility in Black communities through entrepreneurship."
NFL Source will offer support to these businesses by serving as a pathway to visibility and access to NFL procurement groups. This program will provide league procurement stakeholders at the club and front office levels with the necessary tools, processes, and guidance to run equitable procurement programs. The rollout of NFL Source will take place in multiple phases, including training sessions and adoption by all procurement leads within the league in June 2024. By September 2024, a supplier diversity playbook will be distributed to all clubs that choose to participate in the program. And for NFL tentpole events, participating host clubs and local organizing committees will be required to adopt the program.
Overall, the NFL's expansion of their supplier diversity program is a major step towards promoting inclusivity and supporting underrepresented businesses. With the help of NFL Source and their partnership with U.S. Black Chambers, Inc., the league is dedicated to creating opportunities and promoting economic mobility for these businesses.
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