Supplier Diversity Program
Providing Information, Resources, and Opportunity
The University of Tennessee System Office of Procurement Services seeks to provide relevant information and resources to assist all suppliers in their pursuit of potential business opportunities with the university. We invite suppliers and employees to explore the resources on this site to learn more.
Our Key Strategies:
- Outreach. Deliver relevant, accurate information and resources that promote all suppliers’ participation in university procurement opportunities.
- In-reach. Educate and engage university departments in the university’s supplier strategic sourcing initiatives.
- Lateral reach. Collaborate with state and community partners to develop strategies for increasing the participation of a variety of businesses in our solicitation of goods and services.
The University of Tennessee complies with all state and federal laws. As an instrumentality of the State of Tennessee, the University does not have mandated set-asides for spending with certified businesses and does not show preference in its procurement processes based on business classifications.
Information and Resources for Current and Potential UT Suppliers
UT Procurement provides numerous workshops and resources to assist suppliers in their pursuit of potential opportunities with the University. Please visit the Info for Bidders and Suppliers area of the UT Procurement website to take advantage of these resources.
State of Tennessee Certification
UT Procurement Services partners with multiple state and local agencies that support Tennessee businesses. One such agency is GoDBE. Among other services, GoDBE certifies Tennessee businesses.
Benefits of certification:
- Certified companies are listed in the Tennessee Certified Business Directory.
- Certification increases exposure among TN government agencies, general contractors, and corporations.
Eligible suppliers may visit GoDBE’s website to learn more,
Search for UT Purchasing Agreements with Certified Suppliers
Search for Tennessee-Certified Suppliers
Tennessee maintains a directory of certified businesses. University departments are encouraged to use the directory to search for suppliers for small purchases and informal bids. The directory is updated daily and offers multiple search options.
- Tennessee Certified Business Directory
- Tips for Searching for Suppliers in the Certified Business Directory
Additional Resources