Purchasing from Minority Business Enterprises: Key Success Factors

SUMMARY There is a growing realization among purchasing managers that sourcing from minority business enterprises (MBEs) results in more than just window dressing for public relations. MBE suppliers bring value and innovation to the supplier base. Furthermore, sourcing from MBE suppliers can help strengthen the economic outlook of the overall minority community. The authors used a combination of case studies and a mail survey to identify the key factors that can result in successful MBE purchasing programs.