The pursuit of larger corporate clients for many smaller Disability-Owned Business Enterprises (DOBEs) can often be daunting and sometimes disappointing. When the lack of experience, size, and capacity to deliver on a large scale gets you down, look no further than potential Tier 2 opportunities to grow your portfolio. Often overlooked or discounted, Tier 2 contracts can positively impact your bottom line while also putting your company on a path to larger clients. This session aims to empower DOBEs to capitalize on Tier 2 procurement opportunities for capacity-building, growth, and sustainability when Tier 1 contracts currently seem out of reach.   

Learning Objectives: 

  1. Receive practical guidance on navigating Tier 2 procurement processes, including certification requirements, supplier qualification criteria, and engagement strategies. 
  2. Explore best practices for positioning your business as a valuable Tier 2 supplier.  
  3. Discover the importance of building sustainable partnerships with Tier 1 suppliers, corporations, and advocacy partners to create lasting business opportunities. 

Moderator:  

  • Brian Hall – Sr. Advisor; Supplier Diversity – SBLO at Shell USA, Inc. 

Panelists: 

  • John Croswell – Partner & Founder at Strong Tower 
  • Hannah Kain – CEO at ALOM 
  • David Orme – Director, Enterprise Supplier Programs at Cox Communications 
  • Heather Herndon Wright – Director, Supply Chain Diversity & Sustainability at Vistra Corp