The CU Grow Vendor Development program hosted its third virtual procurement event for Cohort 6 on August 11, 2022, bringing together the program's current participating firms and alumni of minority-, women- and locally owned (MWL) businesses, key project managers from Columbia University Facilities and Operations (CUFO) and program partners for a networking event to discuss potential business opportunities within the University's various campuses and resources available for MWL firms to grow businesses.
Columbia presenters included Director of Campus Operations Raphael Lynch and Director of Capital Planning Management Chris Semlies, both who offered information on upcoming University projects and ways to bid on them. Assistant Vice President of University Supplier Diversity Tanya Pope also presented on diversity supplier grant funding opportunities provided by the Local Initiative Support Corporation (LISC), including the Chase Diverse Supplier Grant Initiative and the Abbott LISC Initiative for Diverse Businesses in Health.
Andis Woodlief and Anthony Amicucci from Turner Surety Insurance Bonding (TSIB) offered participants information on insurance services provided by the Diversity Assured Program. The program supports the ability of diverse firms to obtain reasonably priced, high-value insurance and bonding.
To learn more about the CU Grow program offerings and how to apply for the cohort starting in February 2023, complete the interest form, and visit cugrow.columbia.edu.