Partnership Efforts Between EMSDC and Corporate Membership Showcase Commitment to Diversity and Business Growth
By: Tricina Cash, Executive Vice President of EMSDC
ENOLA, Penn. — In today’s rapidly evolving business landscape, fostering diversity and inclusivity has become a key driver for success. Recognizing this, the Eastern Minority Supplier Development Council (EMSDC) has been working diligently to forge partnerships and create opportunities for diverse businesses. One recent example of their successful collaboration is SHARE Central PA, an event that brought together corporate members, such as UPMC, PPL, and the GIANT Company.
SHARE Central PA was designed to facilitate connections and promote business growth for our MBEs. The event also featured a dynamic matchmaking session, aimed to bridge the gap between corporations seeking innovative and diverse suppliers and minority-owned businesses seeking expansion and new opportunities.
Co-chaired by EMSDC’s president and CEO, Brian K. Oglesby, and the African American Chamber of Commerce of Central Pennsylvania president, Leland Nelson, SHARE Central PA brought together influential leaders and stakeholders from various sectors. The event provided a platform for meaningful conversations, idea exchange, and collaboration.
One of the notable speakers at SHARE Central PA was Lieutenant Governor Austin Davis, whose presence underscored Pennsylvania’s commitment to fostering an inclusive business environment. Davis’s participation highlighted the significance of partnerships between public and private entities in driving diversity and economic growth.
Joining the Lieutenant Governor was Deputy Secretary Kerry Kirkland, who provided valuable insights into the government’s initiatives supporting minority-owned businesses. By sharing these insights, Kirkland offered guidance and resources for businesses aiming to thrive in today’s competitive marketplace.
The event also featured industry leaders who have made significant strides in championing diversity and inclusion within their organizations. PPL’s Supplier DEI Director, Sandra Schrauger, shared her expertise in implementing strategies to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) within the supply chain. Schrauger’s presence reinforced the message that corporations are increasingly recognizing the importance of working with diverse suppliers to drive innovation and competitiveness.
Furthermore, SHARE Central PA welcomed Bony Dawood, President and CEO of Dawood Engineering, who brought a wealth of experience and perspective from the private sector. Dawood’s presence served as an inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs and showcased the immense potential of minority-owned businesses.
Through events like SHARE Central PA, EMSDC continues to fulfill its mission of creating opportunities for diverse businesses and connecting them with corporations actively seeking to expand their supplier networks. The council’s dedication to fostering partnerships and facilitating business relationships underscores its commitment to driving economic growth and leveling the playing field for minority entrepreneurs.
By fostering collaboration between corporations, government representatives, and industry leaders, EMSDC is helping to break down barriers and create an environment where diverse businesses can thrive. Through matchmaking sessions, educational programs, and networking opportunities, EMSDC ensures that minority-owned businesses have a fair chance to showcase their capabilities and secure valuable contracts.
As we move towards a more inclusive and equitable future, initiatives like SHARE Central PA serve as a powerful reminder of the positive impact that can be achieved through partnership and collaboration. EMSDC and its corporate members are leading the way in creating a business landscape that values diversity, cultivates innovation, and drives economic growth for all.
The mission of the Eastern Minority Supplier Development Council (EMSDC) is to stimulate and support economic development with minority-owned businesses throughout Pennsylvania, Southern New Jersey, and Delaware, in an effort to initiate growth and opportunity through Supplier Diversity channels. As an affiliate of the National Minority Supplier Development Council (NMSDC), we certify and connect MBEs with member corporations that are committed to supplier development and want to purchase their products, services, and solutions.