MMSDC Gazette September Issue

POWERED BY

2021 ACE AMBASSADORS

POWERED BY

A WELCOME FROM OUR PRESIDENT AND CEO COURTESY OF

POWERED BY

CONTENTS BUSINESS FUNDING & RESOURCES

Providing you with the resources, information and tools necessary for business development and success.

FEATURED PROGRAMS The Global Initiative facilitates transformational change to accelerate entry into international markets.

GOOGLE RESOURCES Google resources for Latino-owned businesses. Google has several resources that will help you simplify your professional life.

HISPANIC MURAL Join MMSDC in a heartfelt congratulations to MMSDC VP and MBDA Center Executive Director William “Bill” Grice.

“STATE” OF THE STATE What the Michigan Minority Supplier Development Council is doing around the state to help close the economic parity gap.

HISPANIC FIRSTS Take a visual journey through history as we recognize a few of the many great accomplishments of the Hispanic community in commemoration of National Hispanic Heritage Month.

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CORPORATE & MBE SPOTLIGHT MMSDC shares a heartfelt posthumous celebration of the valiant accomplishments of Monica Martinez and recognizes some of the certified Hispanic-owned MBEs making great strides in supplier diversity.

PRESIDENT’S CORNER It is important to continue the work to reduce the 333 Years to Parity narrative as we find that Hispanic businesses lack access to capital that fuels many high-growth industries today.

SIGNATURE EVENTS: ACE AWARDS/SCHOLARSHIP GALA

Please join us virtually on December 9, 2021 as we honor those past, present, and future catalysts committed to the growth of minority business enterprises.

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BUSINESS FUNDING & RESOURCES FUNDING RESOURCES FOR MBES ANNUITY FREEDOM. NET/ SMALL BUSINESSWOMEN’S GRANT About this Women’s Business Grant The catalyst for our grants was seeing and hearing about the tremendous impact of COVID-19 on entrepreneurs who are women. We want to dedicate some of our knowledge and time to help. While this is a business website, we are trying to help other business owners with our grant program. In support of this goal, we have disabled our normal calls to action/contact forms on grant pages and replaced our normal header images. We do not want your money. We want to help you make more money.

Small Business Grant for Women | Free Marketing Services + Microgrant

CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE

JAMES GROUP DRIVE The James Group Family has started a $100,000 Funding Initiative to develop entrepreneurs and students in the City of Detroit to help accelerate growth and excellence in our community. If you’re driven and have a clear vision for the future to benefit both yourself and the community, then we need to hear from you! Entrepreneurs: Who live or work in Detroit, have a business plan to make Detroit a better place OR Students: A Detroit high school graduate or a current Detroit college student enrolled in a 2 or 4 year institution of higher learning, skilled trades program, or continuing education program.

METRO DETROIT BLACK BUSINESS ALLIANCE The Capital Connect program plugs Metro Detroit Black owned businesses into funding resources which helps to ensure their sustained success.

• Access to millions of dollars in grants and loans from our capital partners.

• Technical assistance provided in business planning, credit repair and more.

• 1:1 Small Business Coaching and much more!

Capital Connect - Metro-Detroit Black Business Alliance

CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE

RENDE CAPITAL RPC is proud to announce that we are receiving applications from Excluded Entrepreneurs of color to the RACE4Progress Fund. The fund provides very low interest, deferred payments, extended terms, and other features for Excluded Entrepreneurs in the Grand Rapids Area/Kent County whose businesses have suffered financially due to COVID-19.

CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE

How it Works — James Group Drive Initative

FISERV US 2021 - BACK2BUSINESS GRANT CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE

HELLO ALICE IN PARTNERSHIP WITH EBAY eBay is giving back to the small businesses powering America. In partnership with Hello Alice, eBay is awarding more than $500,000 in grants and education resources to help small businesses stay up and running into 2022 and beyond. eBay Up & Running Grants Round 2

CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE

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In partnership with AEO, we are pleased to announce the Fiserv Back2Business Grants for Small Business Program, which will award up to $10,000 to Black- and minority-owned businesses that have been impacted by COVID-19 and social unrest. We are equipping these businesses with vital education, coaching, and capital to truly fuel growth of our communities, creating sustainable business and shared value for all.

CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE

COMMUNE ANGELS Commune Angels launched in 2020 to expand access to angel investing and capital. We invest in scalable consumer, enterprise, and life science companies that transform lives. Diversity is essential to transformative innovation, and our members are committed to contributing their unique experiences, relationships, and resources to drive better outcomes for investors, portfolio companies, and their customers. Commune Angels is a community of accredited and rising investors who recognize the power of diversity and national deal flow.

CCI - INTERNATIONAL SUCCESS

CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE

COMCAST RISE In June 2020, Comcast NBCUniversal announced the development of a comprehensive, multi-year plan to allocate $75 million in cash and $25 million in media over the next three years to fight injustice and inequality against any race, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, or ability. Starting March 1, 2021, qualifying businesses may apply for the Comcast RISE Investment Fund.

CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE

INDUSTRY 4.0 DEMO GRANT FUND Industry 4.0 Demo Grant Fund – $110,000 Available for MBEs (apply before April 2022): The technology readiness demo fund is part of a larger initiative, backed by the State of Michigan, to help Michigan’s small and medium manufacturers embrace and adopt Industry 4.0 technologies and ideologies. Companies are encouraged to work with Automation Alley and MMTC who are in the process of completing ‘Industry 4.0 Readiness’ assessments. ​ The I4.0 accelerator team helps MBEs identify opportunities to leverage cutting-edge industry 4.0 technology and works with each manufacturer to understand what a ‘successful’ implementation looks like. When there is an opportunity identified, manufacturers can apply for matching funds (up to $5,000) to support the initial installation and demo.

CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE

Continental AG, a German multinational automotive parts manufacturing company was looking to expand their Mexico facility plant operations. Commercial Construction Incorporated (CCI), a Michigan-based industrial contractor had the privilege of serving as the rigging general contractor.

CCI was responsible for performing multi phases of machinery dismantling in North Carolina and transportation and reinstallation in Mexico. With experienced crews and specialty equipment, CCI has the ability to self-perform rigging projects locally and nationally. In addition, CCI’s strategic partnerships in Mexico offers their clients a comprehensive turnkey solution.

The project will serve to enable around 20,000 square meters of space for a production floor. With this expansion, San Luis Potosi will be the largest automotive plant in the world for the Hydraulic Brake Systems (HBS) business unit.

“Our ability to deliver and lead projects nationally along with the relationships we have built in Mexico were key components in the overall success of this project.” - Robert L. Garcia, President & CEO. Over the years, CCI has performed various projects in 10 different states for the automotive and energy sectors. “Our clients have been a driving force in exposing us to diversified segments of business. It says a lot about our capabilities when our clients want us to travel with them. We’re honored that they trust us to manage their national and international projects.”

– Phillip M. Garcia, Operations Manager.

FEATURED PROGRAMS GLOBAL INITIATIVE The Global Initiative facilitates transformational change to accelerate market entry, match support solutions to identified market challenges, fast track introductions to high quality, pre-qualified pro-spective customers, accompany and support during initial customer meetings and assistance with negotiations and closing deals, significant reductions in time, cost and risk in establishing business relationships and market entry in Mexico.

The Initiative offers: Webinars on business opportunities and regional networking events Trade Missions and B2B sessions Cultural training/programs Permanent offering of international consulting services to companies to evaluate market-entry requirements, products, services, resources from targeted companies and track busi-ness development activities Help companies understand the basics of doing business in Mexico Identify the best regions and markets to sell & operate within Mexico based on industry specific demands Aligning our strategy with the US, Mexico, Canada trade agreement (USMCA) specifically chapter 25 regarding small and minority owned business creating MBE-to-MBE business, we increase trade within North America thus contributing to reduce racial wealth gap and support the 333 - 15 path to parity challenge by sourcing Certified Minority Business, providing access to capital and helping the Minority spin 1% yearly contribution.

HOW TO ACCESS THE PROGRAM? https://mmsdcglobalinitiaitve.org

WHO DO WE SERVE? We serve all MBE’s interested in exploring readiness and opportunities for international expansion.

HOW DO PARTICIPANTS BENEFIT FROM BEING PART OF THE GLOBAL INITIATIVE? By participating in the Global Initiative, MBE’s have the opportunity to scale their business. The Global Initiative has developed a Minority-Owned Business plastic injection and stamping Consortiums that can be scaled to support OEM and Tier Business. These consortiums will have access to capital, banking relationships and a core competency that includes high financial aptitude. The businesses are co-located in the United States and Mexico competitively and comparatively advantage operationally (value-add) and vertically. Created through Merger and Acquisitions, Joint Ventures or Strategic Alliances.

By participating in Matchmaker 365 (MM365) an on-demand, online matchmaking tool that connects corporate buyers or decision makers to curate sourcing opportunities with Minority-Owned Businesses and international companies literally 24/7 and 365 days of the year.

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CULTURAL INTEGRATOR

DREAM TEAM

JAVIER SMITH

FEATURED STAFF MEMBER: Javier Smith SUPERPOWERS: International Commerce and Trade Business Development Advisor, Marketing Strategist, E-commerce Consultant, Project Manager, Soft-landing, Business Planning.

SPECIAL SKILLS: Strategist, Problem solving, Innovative, Risk taker, Entrepreneurial, Fosters the establishment of international relations between governments, chambers of commerce, private companies and public/private entities, strives for inclusion, empowerment and opportunity to expand business abroad.

SUPER HERO STATS (KPIs) Two International B2B Delegations to Mexico One Technology Summit Two U.S. Mexico Trade Symposium for the Michigan Minority Procurement Conference Four Mexico/U.S Trade and International Expansion Webinars Four MOU’S with Mexican entities Matchmaker 365 Platform contribution of international participation Plug and Play Detroit contribution of international participation Detroit Textile Cooperative Project contribution of international market expansion Creation and support of Stamping & Plastic International Consortium

Grow with

Crezca con

Step by Step

Paso a Paso

Google Resources for Latinoowned businesses

Google Recursos para Empresarios Latinos

Google is here to help your business adapt and grow step-by-step with free virtual workshops, digital coaching, online classes, and video tutorials. They even have a free, customizable marketing kit to help you promote your business.

Google esta aquí para ayudar a adaptar y desarrollar tu empresa paso a paso con talleres virtuales gratuitos, entrenadores digitales, clases en línea y tutoriales en video. Incluso tienen un kit de marketing gratuito y personalizable para que puedas promocionar tu empresa.

CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE

CLIC AQUÍ PARA SABER MÁS

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THE FUTURE OF SUPPLIER DIVERSITY IS HERE!

Generate quality matches to Certified MBEs based on your personalized sourcing requests 24/7 and 365 days a year.

Buyer-tested and approved.

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Register for Free: https://matchmaker365.minoritysupplier.org/

"STATE" OF THE STATE

THE ROAD TO PARITY

HAPPENINGS AROUND THE STATE

CORRECTION: In the "State" of the State article of the July issue, the amount of MBEs located throughout the state misidentified the number of MBEs in the SE region of Michigan. The correct number of MBEs located throughout the state of Michigan can be found in the MMSDC Annual Report.

WEST MICHIGAN

SOUTHEAST MICHIGAN

September 27th - 28th

Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Centennial Park - Detroit Riverfront Conservancy Project

Fulfilling the Dream: Golf Outing and Business Meeting 8:10 - 9:00 AM General Session Lifting up/building up minority business For more information Contact Sharon Crockett at 313-481-4789.

There will be great opportunity here for local businesses to contribute directly to their community and maximize their return of investment by working ‘in town.’ We’d love to see the local community begin to enjoy the benefits of this endeavor before the park has opened!

For more information Contact Sharon Crockett at 313-481-4789.

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STATE-WIDE OPPORTUNITY

AHOY MICHIGAN! We heard your requests for help in getting government contracts. Please accept this personal invitation to join the first cohort of, Preparation for How to Do Business with the Department of Navy SBIR. This 4-week one hour commitment will change your life. At the end of this session, you will have a greater understanding of not only how to do business with the DON, but also steps for successfully completing the application process, where to find the opportunities, understanding the terminology and where to get help.

You will be ready for the November 23, 2021- next listing of opportunities.

Week One – Overview (DON SBIR/STTR presentation) Mission of the project Learn the Basics of the DON SBIR/STTR programs Where to find opportunities Week Two – Bridging the Gaps (MBDA) How to maneuver the process Steps for completing the process Where to go for help What is the proposal and steps to completing one Week Three – Understanding the Terminology (MMSDC/MBDA?) Breaking down the acronyms Understanding the job titles and descriptions Matching your skill to the right opportunity Week Four – Success Story (SBIR Awarded SB Guest Speaker) Hear from a successful small MBE who is currently doing business with the DON Learn the challenges and how they overcame these challenges Helpful hints for successful contracting For more information contact: Sharon Crockett at 313-481-4789

LATIN AMERICAN

1513 Searching for the "Fountain of Youth," Spanish explorer Juan Ponce de Leon lands along the Florida coast, inspiring a myriad of early Spanish explorers to establish settlements in America.

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1959 1917 President Wilson signs the Jones-Shafroth Act, granting U.S. citizenship to Puerto Ricans and creating a bicameral legislature in the island territory.

Severo Ochoa receives Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine for the synthesis of ribonucleic acid (RNA)

1910-1917

1947

The long and violent Mexican Revolution causes a surge of Mexicans to cross the U.S. border, with El Paso, Texas, serving as "Mexican Ellis Island".

The 9th Circuit Court of Appeals makes a landmark ruling prohibiting segregation in California public schools in Mendez v. Westminster School District, setting the precedent for the historic Brown v. Board of Education Supreme Court case seven years later.

The American Hispanic/Latinx history is a rich, diverse and long one, with immigrants, refugees and Spanish-speaking or indigenous people living in the United States since long before the nation was established. As we commemorate Latin American Heritage month, MMSDC recognizes a few of the many powerful contributions of the Hispanic/Latinx community, which currently comprises approximately 18 percent of the US population.

1966 Cesar Chavez, general director of the National Farm Workers Association, leads 75 Latino and Filipino farm workers on a historic 340-mile march from Delano, California to the state capitol in Sacramento. In solidarity with Chavez, millions of Americans stopped eating grapes to support farm workers.

2010 Mexican business magnate, investor and philanthropist Carlos Slim Helu is ranked as the richest person in the world by the Forbes business magazine.

2020 National Museum of the American Latino established at the Smithsonian.

1960 Roberto Clemente becomes the first Latin American and Caribbean to win a World Series as a starting player. He was also inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 1973, making him the first Latin American and Caribbean honoree.

2020 2009 Sonia Sotomayor becomes the first Latina to become a U.S. Supreme Court Justice.

The US-Mexico-Canada Agreement replaces the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) between the U.S., Mexico and Canada (1994), establishing a North American trade-free zone and lifting tariffs of most goods.

CORPORATE SPOTLIGHT EWIE Group of Companies, a 100% minority owned company since 1981, services the Industrial sector with a unique business strategy. EGC is a global leader in commodity management services spanning cutting tools, abrasives, special tools and industrial supplies with over 30 years of experience. This approach has helped EGC deliver over $100 million dollars in engineered cost savings to their customers.

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MONICA L. MARTINEZ The MMSDC is proud to honor the memory of a well-respected diversity trailblazer Monica L. Martinez, a National Community Affairs leader for Comerica Bank.

Her unexpected passing took everyone by surprise, especially the many colleagues and associates who valued her support and dedication.

Many of her colleagues attended the funeral mass in Michigan including Curtis Farmer, Comerica chairman and CEO. The bank also placed a full-page ad to show reverence for her commitment to the community.

“Monica provided unwavering support and advocacy for diversity, particularly in Southeast Michigan, said Gloria Oldani, MMSDC board member and Comerica Bank Director of Corporate Procurement. “Monica was a friend and ally to many that knew her, and her leadership and commitment will be missed by Comerica Bank as well as by the people and groups she positively influenced.”

Born in Southwest Detroit, Monica, learned the traditions of her Mexican heritage and was taught Spanish by her grandmother. She carried the love for her culture throughout her career.

Martinez earned a bachelor’s and master’s degree from Eastern Michigan University.

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She had a 10-year tenure at Ford Motor Co., before joining Comerica Bank in 2006, holding several positions. Most recently, she managed Comerica’s external community initiatives and partnerships, 19 Diversity Business Resource Groups, corporate volunteer program focusing on low- and moderate-income communities and continued to serve as Comerica’s National Hispanic Business Development Manager. Monica’s involvement in the community was undeniable and an inspiration to all.

“The impact Monica made in the community is immeasurable,” said Irvin Ashford, Jr., Comerica Chief Community Officer. “She will be remembered for her integrity and admirable rapport with philanthropic partners and business associates that will create opportunities for generations to come.”

She also served on several nonprofit boards and received countless honors and recognitions over the course of her life.

MBE SPOTLIGHT ANITA-MARIA QUILLEN

President & CEO Diversified Engineering & Plastics Anita-Maria Quillen, President & CEO of Diversified Engineering & Plastics (DEP) is an active member in the community, member of the MMSDC, board member with MHCC, and Michigan Girl Scouts and more. She is passionate about the mission of the company and is the shining beacon who keeps everyone directed no matter how rough the waters. With over 50 years of experience, DEP is a trusted, fearless, problem-solving engineering and manufacturing partner. Which is highlighted through its expertise in design, metal to plastic conversion, assembly, welding, kitting, over-molding of electrical components for Tier One and Tier Two companies. As a minority-owned business, they focus on people, community, and living their values. DEP offers compassion and provides real life opportunities to local families. The company is recognized as a top job creator in Jackson County, and one that stands with its team to ensure they meet their professional and personal goals, even if that means they are their steppingstone.

CONNIE S. REUTHER

CEO/Chairman/President Bay Corrugated Container, Inc Established in 1964, Bay Corrugated Container is a manufacturer of custom corrugated packaging for a diverse assortment of markets. Bay Corrugated is a Hispanic woman-owned company devoted to providing quality products and services to our customers.

We are ISO 9001:2015, FSSC 22000, and FSC Certified.

Since becoming a certified MBE in 2006, and a certified WBE in 2016, Bay Corrugated regularly participates in, and sponsors MMSDC and WBENC programs and events. We are also a proud sponsor of MHCC and take part in many events MHCC hosts throughout the year. Our participation in conferences and matchmakers has allowed us to exponentially grow our network. We are grateful to MMSDC, WBENC, and MHCC for organizing these incredible events year after year.

ROBERT L. GARCIA

CEO Commercial Construction, Inc. (CCI) Commercial Construction, Inc. (CCI) is a full service, 100% MBE industrial contractor specializing in industrial construction, machinery installation, steel erection, and industrial maintenance. For over 20 years, CCI has served the automotive, power/energy, industrial process, general manufacturing and water/wastewater industries. CCI has been an active board member of the Michigan Hispanic Chamber of Commerce for 10 years, where their involvement includes everything from community engagement and educational roles to corporate sponsorships and general awareness. In addition, CCI is also a corporate member on the DTE Supplier Diversity Advisory Council. The council’s approach to diversity has continued to advance the initiative both at DTE and within the community. The DTE team members and corporates discuss strategies, major spend opportunities, supplier identification and development and community outreach opportunities.

STEPS TO MBE SUCCESS Stay motivated – don't give up!

Develop superior capability statements and pitch decks to seal the deal Seize every opportunity to maintain connections made

Develop and cultivate relationships

Participate in Council programs, activities, and events

Become a Certified MBE through MMSDC

PRES

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SIDENT’S CORNER I’d like to take a moment to salute the Latino members of the MMSDC, thank them for their partnership and congratulate them on being astute business people.

According to the 2020 State of the Latino Entrepreneurship Report, a study by the Stanford Graduate School of Business, Latino Owned Businesses (LOB) that leverage formal business organizational networks are more than twice as likely to experience funding success as those that did not engage in any networking activities (63% versus 28%).

Their data show that businesses that leverage organizational and personal networks are more likely to come in contact with capital providers, which may provide opportunities to build the relationships needed to facilitate funding requests. Our own deep dive into the state of minority business, released earlier this year, offers that among Latino owned businesses with annual revenues greater than $1 million, funding was scarce, with only 29% of Latino-owned businesses approved for loans, compared to 76% for white-owned businesses (WOBs).

Black and Hispanic businesses lack access to capital that fuels many high-growth industries today. For example, in 2020, Black and Hispanic businesses received only 2.6% of all venture funding. MBEs also start with lower start-up capital than white-owned firms and are less likely to receive credit from banks. Corporations can leverage their cheaper access to capital to provide easier access to MBEs without diluting owner equity.

The challenge to attaining economic parity is unquestionably complex, and the solutions are not always known or easy. But the responsibility to act boldly to make a meaningful difference remains. Corporations must act urgently to address the racial wealth gap that persists in the US economy.

In this issue of the Gazette, you’ll learn more about our Latino member business leaders and how the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) is changing the business landscape in North America. Commemorations like Latin Heritage Month should give us pause to think about how financially healthy ethnic and immigrant communities make our country better.

We hope you will join us for the Chairman’s Gala and ACE Awards, which include our Hall of Fame Legends. This year’s event will celebrate those past and present who make a difference for minority businesses in our state. Nominations are now open for the Chairman’s Scholarship.

Also, tune in to our MMSDC-TV, Powered by Google for more profiles and insights.

Michelle

MMSDC Congratulates the 2021 ACE Awards Ambassadors. Join us virtually on the evening of December 9th, 2021 as we celebrate these current torchbearers and their contributions to supplier diversity. For more information on event registration or sponsorship opportunities, please visit ace.minoritysupplier.org .

AMBASSADORS CHAMPIONING EXCELLENCE IN M IN OR IT Y S UP P LIER D EV ELOP M ENT

PASSING THE TORCH TO PARITY

Advocate of the Year Ambassadors

Jacinto Blanco

Bashar Cholagh Stellantis

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan

Yanfeng Global Automotive Interiors

Jennifer Good

Teresa LeFevre

Brenda Marshall

Gloria Oldani

Mary Mbiya

Brian Moore

Sylvia L. Daniels Ray

Yanfeng Global Automotive Interiors

Stellantis

Flagstar Bank

Comerica Bank

Flex

Lynn Garrison

Executive of the Year Ambassadors

Kelly

Cardinal Health

James G. Bos

Comerica Bank

Jennifer Charters

Kenneth Mathies

Flagstar Bank

AAA - The Auto Club Group

Craig Price

Scott Thiele

Dana Incorporated

Anthony (Tony) Tomczak DTE Energy

Stellantis

Robert Young Toyota

Buyer of the Year Ambassadors Jaspreet Singh DTE Energy

Travis Spencer

Ford Motor Company

Tamika Walker General Motors

Tonya Bonczak

Henry Ford Health System

Matthewson Mansfield Grand Rapids Community College

Janelle Meyers Kellogg Company

Tim Young CBRE

Cassandra Washington Henry Ford Health System

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Alycia Williams

Henry Ford Health System

Barb Wolak

Dana Corporation

MBE Luminary of the Year Ambassadors

David Burnley, Jr.

Devon Industrial Group

Jim Roberts

Jim Roberts Enterprises, LLC

Sylvester L. Hester ARD Logistics

Andra Rush

Dakkota Integrated Systems

Sanjiv Shah

AMBE Engineering

Supplier of the Year Class I Ambassadors

Leon C. Richardson Chemico Systems, Inc

Laurie Sall

Supplier of the Year Class II Ambassadors

Laurie Sall & Associates, LLC

Karl Stephens

Call Center For Hire, LLC

Volunteer of the Year Ambassadors

Jacinto Blanco

Yanfeng Global Automotive Interiors

Jennifer Good Stellantis

Stephanie Burnley

Shannon Ellison

Charles L. Moore

Jacqueline Kay Munson-Gaines

Devon Industrial Group

C L Moore & Associates

Flex-N-Gate

Supplier of the Year Class III Ambassadors

JMG Connects, LLC

Sanjiv Shah

AMBE Engineering

Maurice E. Thompson DTE Energy

Corporation of the Year Ambassadors

Supplier of the Year Class IV Ambassadors

This year, the Michigan Minority Supplier Development Council is excited to announce that deserving scholars will have two scholarship opportunities to compete for! In addition to MMSDC’s traditional $5,000 scholarships, Google has generously partnered with the council to add the Google Scholar opportunity.

These opportunities will award scholarships to minority high school seniors as well as college undergraduate students majoring in the areas of Science, Technology, Engineering, Agriculture, Mathematics and Medicine (STEAM) and Business curriculums.

They will assist minority students from Michigan to achieve their academic and professional goals while providing the business community access to a talented pool of students from which to recruit and employ.

Please feel free to review the following guidelines and invite a deserving scholar to apply today! The deadline for scholarship applications has been extended to Friday, October 8th. There will be no further extensions.

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Google Sponsorship (2 Available) at $5,000 Spread the Word!

MMSDC is Now Offering 2 New Scholarship Opportunities in 2021!

Powered by Google, these unique scholarships will go to two deserving students who are Michiganders that attend, or plan to attend, a Historically Black College or University (HBCUs), while majoring in STEM or Computer Sciences.

This is a great opportunity for perspective students, that could also result in a potential internship!

• 1 of the 2 Google Scholarship recipients will also receive a $7,500 paid summer internship with PNP or one of the Plug and Play – AmplifyD startups • Plug and Play startups will submit the internship opportunity they are offering, and MMSDC will select the Google AmplifyD Scholar from the applicants MMSDC Scholarship Guidelines This year, the Michigan Minority Supplier Development Council will award eight (8) scholarships to minority undergraduate students in the Science, Technology, Engineering, Agriculture, Mathematics and Medicine (STEAM) and Business curriculums. This exciting program will assist minority students in Michigan to achieve their academic and professional goals while providing the business community access to a talented pool of students from which to recruit and employ.

To Apply, Students Must meet the Below Criteria: • Applicants must identify as a minority as defined by the National Minority Supplier Development Council​(African American, Asian-Pacific American, Asian-Indian American, Hispanic American or Native American) • Applicants must be a legal resident in the state of Michigan with a valid driver’s license or state ID, or have graduated from a High School located in Michigan • Applicants must attend a two or four-year accredited College, University or Community College, or be a graduating senior in High School • Students must be pursuing a degree with a focus in Science, Technology, Engineering, Agriculture, Mathematics and Medicine (STEAM) and Business curriculums (Inclusive of Finance, Management, Marketing, and Supply Chain) • Applicants must have a GPA of 3.0 or higher • Displaying a willingness to contribute your time to various community activities and initiatives is strongly encouraged

APPLY NOW!

smile.amazon.com Because the season for giving is year-round, we invite you to select MMSDC as your nonprofit organization of choice when shopping on Amazon Smile.

Click Here for more information on how to donate a portion of your Amazon purchases to charity. To ensure that MMSDC receives your donations, please select “Michigan Minority Purchasing Council MMSDC” as your charity of choice.

This program costs you nothing, but directly benefits the growth and success of MBEs.