2024 WBE Hall of Fame Awards Program Presenters from left: Tom Trotter, Billy Bryant Schultz and Terri Quinton.
Accepting for IBM, Jackie Turner, Strategic Sourcing Manager
IBM launched its supplier diversity program in 1968, well before the establishment of key diversity policies in the U.S. The company has a long history of inclusion, dating back to hiring its first women and minority employees in 1899 and implementing an Equal Pay for Equal Work Policy in 1935. IBM’s Supplier Diversity Program focuses on fostering relationships and developing capabilities for businesses owned by minorities, women, LGBTQ+, veterans, and disabled individuals. In 2000, IBM became the first IT company to spend $1 billion with diverse suppliers and joined the Billion Dollar Roundtable.
IBM has played a foundational role in advancing supplier diversity by supporting certification, education, and networking initiatives. It is a corporate partner of organizations such as the National Minority Supplier Development Council, Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC), and Disability:IN. The company also leads a 20-plus-year program for women-owned businesses in collaboration with WBENC and Dartmouth’s Tuck School of Business, offering an immersive learning experience. Additionally, IBM actively participates in WBENC conferences, matchmaking events, and pitch competitions, while also supporting the Black-Owned Women Collective™.
WBE HALL OF FAME HONOREE
