Tool Suite 2: WOMEN-OWNED BUSINESSES AND THE SUPPLY CHAIN

Representation of women-owned businesses in the corporate infrastructure supply chain remains limited, mirroring similar gaps in public procurement. Several factors contribute to these gaps. Starting with the demand side of the equation, companies may have trouble identifying women-owned businesses that are locally owned and meet their procurement needs. Companies may not see a business case for making the extra effort to reach out to women-owned businesses. And companies might not know how to go about incorporating women into supply chains in a meaningful and cost-effective way.