Supplier Diversity

BEP – Business Enterprise Program
A program that promotes contracting opportunities for businesses owned by minorities, women, and persons with disabilities.

VBP – Veterans Business Program
A program that promotes contracting opportunities for veteran-owned businesses.

NIGP Codes  Codes used to identify the types of goods or services a vendor can provide.

CEI – Commission on Equity and Inclusion 
Responsible for promoting equity, inclusion, and diversity in state contracting. CEI oversees programs such as the Business Enterprise Program (BEP) and Veterans Business Program (VBP),

Consider some of the following best practices you can implement to build a diverse network of vendors:

• Forecast expenditures several months to a year in advance whenever possible.Set reasonable quote deadline goals for vendors to prepare and respond.
• Reach out to many vendors for price quotes, going beyond the required two.
• If a vendor isn't interested in providing pricing, see if they are willing to explain why not.
• With Purchasing, arrange for on-campus meetings with vendors who may be interested.
• Encourage vendors to subcontract or purchase project supplies from diverse vendors.
• Develop a competitive process for purchases under $20,000 if appropriate (copiers, construction, etc.)

To learn more about how to locate a certified diverse vendor through the CMS BEP/VBP vendor directory, we've prepared a guide for you.

In accordance with 44 Ill.Admin Code 4.2020(a), Departments must obtain at least three quotes, and at least one quote must be from a BEP-certified vendor. Follow these steps:

1. Find the NIGP codes that match the goods or services you need.
2. Use the NIGP Code List to identify the appropriate codes.
   Search for certified vendors using the NIGP codes.
   Use the Supplier Diversity Management Portal Vendor Directory to find vendors that provide the goods or services you need.
3. If you cannot find a qualified BEP-certified vendor, contact ISUpurchasing@ilstu.edu with the details of your request. Purchasing will assist with the exception process.

Purchasing will work with the department to ensure supplier diversity requirements are addressed during the bidding process. Purchasing will:

1. Work with the department to identify the NIGP codes relevant to the project.
2. Require vendors to submit documentation demonstrating that the BEP requirements have been met.
3. Review the submitted documentation for accuracy and contact vendors if corrections or additional information are needed.