The Association of National Advertisers (ANA) is committed to fostering supplier diversity within the marketing and advertising industry. Supplier diversity is a proactive business practice that encourages the use of businesses owned by women, ethnic minorities, veterans, LGBTQ+ individuals, people with disabilities, and small businesses as suppliers1.

Importance of Supplier Diversity

Supplier diversity is more than just a corporate social responsibility initiative; it is a strategic business imperative. By incorporating diverse suppliers, companies can:

• Reflect Customer Demographics: A diverse supply base mirrors the diverse customer population, enhancing customer insight and driving innovation.
• Drive Economic Growth: Investing in diverse suppliers provides direct economic benefits to local communities, fostering economic development and job creation.
• Enhance Corporate Image: Companies that prioritize supplier diversity are seen as leaders in promoting equality and inclusion, which can enhance their reputation and brand loyalty.

ANA’s Supplier Diversity Resources

The ANA offers a wealth of resources to support supplier diversity initiatives:

• Certified Diverse Suppliers List: A curated list of certified diverse suppliers in the marketing and advertising industry, updated regularly to help marketers find and engage with diverse suppliers.
• Educational Programs: Workshops and training sessions designed to help companies leverage diversity in their supply chains and improve their supplier diversity programs.
• Supplier Diversity Fairs: Virtual events that provide a platform for diverse suppliers to showcase their capabilities and for buyers to discover new partners.
• Guidelines and Reports: Comprehensive guidelines and research reports on best practices for investing in diverse media companies and managing supplier diversity programs.