UW embraces all forms of diversity in all aspects of its functions, including increasing opportunities for minority and women-owned businesses. The Business Diversity & Equity Program coordinates these efforts, in cooperation with Procurement Services and buyers throughout the University.
UW conducts business using a decentralized model. Empowering departments, programs and offices to make their own decisions regarding purchases less than $10,000 means that you may connect directly with these decision makers. For purchases $10,000 or higher, departments work directly with Procurement Services for their buying decisions.
UW engages in outreach efforts to minority and woman-owned businesses to announce business opportunities for a wide variety of goods and services, as well architecture and engineering services and construction at all of our campuses.
The Statement of Business Equity by the Board of Regents (pdf) codifies our values in university policy, making it clear that business practices will be guided by a belief in inclusiveness and equity. The UW will actively engage with small businesses, women-owned businesses, and minority-owned businesses to create opportunity and transparency, while supporting the broader economy of Washington.
The following is a statement following the adoption of our Statement of Business Equity:
“I want to commend the work of the Business Diversity Steering Committee in crafting this Statement of Business Equity, as well as the Business Diversity Program for helping build connections between businesses and the University,” said President Ana Mari Cauce. “We’re a better university because of the connections they’ve built already, and will be even stronger through those they’ll create as a result of this university-wide focus.”
Supplier orientations
We recommend attending Procurement Services' monthly Supplier orientation. Orientation allows suppliers to connect directly with contract staff, the Business Diversity Program and state buying representatives. We encourage not only attending, but also connecting directly with the& Washington State Office of Minority Women & Business Enterprises (OMWBE) as another resource.
Supplier registration
Interested in doing business with the University of Washington? Register here to join the University’s internal database (powered by Supplier.io). Supplier.io is an advanced business directory data platform designed to help organizations identify and monitor diverse suppliers. UW buyers and internal partners leverage this system to enhance spend initiatives and also use the internal database when seeking businesses for work. The UW supplier business directory is open to all businesses interested in opportunities with the University. Small, veteran-owned, and disadvantaged businesses may register in the database and provide evidence of their certification status (if applicable).