Supplier Diversity in Action: Highlights from the 3rd Quarter BEI Procurement Roundtable
“It pays to be in the room where it happens.” That phrase perfectly captures the spirit of the 3rd quarter Business Equity for Indy (BEI) Procurement Roundtable, where diverse suppliers, corporate partners, and community leaders gathered to share capabilities, uncover opportunities, and strengthen connections that drive equitable business growth across Central Indiana.
This session introduced a new twist: BEI’s first-ever wild card pitch round. Tim Thompson of Data Integration Consulting stepped forward with an impromptu presentation that not only showcased his company’s offerings but also built naturally on the pitch before him. Even more powerful, his remarks tied directly into questions that had been posed by the audience just moments earlier. It was a vivid demonstration of the kind of alignment and synergy that happens when diverse suppliers and decision-makers come together in the same room.
“The Procurement Roundtable is where possibility takes shape,” shared Christina Snorten, Director of Enterprise Development, Indy Chamber. “When diverse suppliers and corporate leaders come together in this way, you can feel the momentum. These conversations don’t just stay in the room; they lead to contracts, partnerships, and real economic impact for Indianapolis.”
The event was made possible through a collective effort of partners and sponsors committed to advancing supplier diversity. The Indiana Energy Association provided sponsorship and partnership support, while Ivy Tech hosted the session with excellence. Attendees also benefitted from a timely presentation by the Indy Black Chamber of Commerce, which offered an in-depth review of AI platforms to optimize business operations. Mid-States MSDC, IU Kelley School of Business, and Eli Lilly & Company’s Supplier Development team added ongoing programmatic support, while Regions Bank and JPMorgan Chase contributed as sponsors and partners. Together, these organizations set the stage for meaningful conversations and authentic connections.
At the heart of this quarter’s Roundtable were the featured suppliers themselves, each bringing expertise, innovation, and proven capability to the table.
- Tiffany Thompson of DaMar Staffing and Consulting Group highlighted her firm’s ability to connect businesses with the right talent to scale effectively.
- Chandra and Darrin Orr of Master Enterprises shared how their company provides specialized solutions that help organizations run more efficiently.
- Matt Robinson of Powers & Sons Construction spoke about the firm’s legacy of delivering high-quality construction projects with integrity and precision.
- Charles Moorer and Eric Grabovsky of Solace Risk Management Insurance Services demonstrated how their team helps clients navigate the complexities of insurance with confidence and clarity.
Each presentation reinforced an important truth: supplier diversity is not just about inclusion—it’s about accessing competitive, high-quality business solutions that strengthen companies and communities alike. When every supplier has the opportunity to thrive, the entire region benefits through innovation, resilience, and shared growth.
As the BEI Procurement Pillar, our mission is to expand equitable participation in the marketplace and ensure that relationships built at these Roundtables translate into contracts, partnerships, and long-term impact. We are deeply grateful to every attendee who invested their time with us this quarter. Your presence and engagement signal a shared commitment to building a more equitable business ecosystem in Indianapolis.
The momentum doesn’t stop here. We invite you to join us for the next Procurement Roundtable on November 13, 2025. Don’t miss the opportunity to be in the room where it happens, to connect with outstanding suppliers, and to help shape an Indianapolis where equity is more than a value—it’s a business advantage. Register here.
