University of Washington, Seattle
OP-15: Inclusive and Local Purchasing

The University of Washington recognizes its economic responsibility as a public institution to provide fair and open opportunities to all members of the business community and especially to Small/Disadvantaged Businesses and MWBE business firms in support of its educational, research and public service activitiesAs a State of Washington institution of higher education, the University of Washington follows state policies regarding goals, contracting opportunities, and reporting requirements for minority and women-owned business enterprises (MWBEs). State MWBE policies are based on statute, 39.19 RCW, and on policies adopted by the Office for Minority and Women’s Business Enterprises (OMWBE). Procurement Services participates in and sponsors supplier outreach events to introduce diverse suppliers to opportunities at the University. The University partners with large suppliers to identify 2nd tier opportunities. eProcurement catalog suppliers are required to identify diverse suppliers in their catalogs and provide reports on spend with diverse suppliers. Procurement Services has established over 67 contracts with small and diverse suppliers in the past 2 years and posts information on our UW contracts page to allow campus to select suppliers in these categoreis. Procurement Services has a staff person dedicated to supplier diversity and sustainability. The individual is also responsible for the Federal Small Business Subcontract Plan process, including plan development, reporting and outreach. http://f2.washington.edu/fm/ps/supplier-diversity http://f2.washington.edu/fm/ps/info-for-suppliers/mwbe-opportunities --> woman stores