2024 WBE Hall of Fame Awards Program Presenters from left: Tom Trotter, Billy Bryant Schultz and Terri Quinton.
Accepting for Merck, Andrea Arce, Senior Specialist, Economic Inclusion and Business Diversity
Merck’s commitment to supplier diversity began in 1985, evolving into its Economic Inclusion & Business Diversity (EI&BD) program, which drives inclusive procurement practices. By sourcing from minority-, women-, veteran-, LGBTQ-, and disability-owned businesses, Merck fosters economic growth and innovation while strengthening its competitive advantage. Key milestones in its journey include launching the MWOE Enterprise Program in 1987, making supplier diversity a strategic initiative in 2005, joining the Billion Dollar Roundtable in 2017, and introducing virtual programs like the Business Opportunity Fair and Tier II Academy.
Merck actively supports women-owned businesses through its membership in WBENC, mentorship programs, and industry-specific initiatives. A notable effort is the Merck Drexel Advanced Leadership Program for small and diverse suppliers, where women-owned businesses have comprised over 50% of participants. Over the past three years, Merck has spent nearly $1 billion with women-owned businesses, reinforcing its long-standing dedication to economic inclusion and supplier diversity.
WBE HALL OF FAME HONOREE
