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Ayana Parsons is an award-winning inclusive leadership expert, serial entrepreneur, and investor dedicated to advancing global change. With over two decades of experience in the supplier diversity and diversity, equity and inclusion space, she has held influential roles at organizations like the World Economic Forum, Korn Ferry and Procter & Gamble.

In the modern corporate landscape, employee resource groups (ERGs) are beacons of inclusivity and collaboration. ERGs also offer a promising avenue to bolster business development efforts. Through connections established via ERGs and minority chambers of commerce, corporations can weave a tapestry of diverse suppliers, enriching their operations and signaling a commitment to equitable business practices.

Since the Bayen Group reserved the last open slot with Burns & McDonnell at a 2019 small business matchmaking event in Pasadena, California, its growth has accelerated. Within months of meeting with Burns & McDonnell, the technology consulting firm, which specializes in cybersecurity and business systems integration, signed a contract to streamline an electrical distribution program for San Diego Gas & Electric Company (SDG&E). The Bayen Group’s quick, quality work with SDG&E won the company two more large projects over subsequent years, resulting in being named as a 2022 Business Partner of the Year.

In 2023, Evergy, Ralph G. Moore & Associates (RGMA) and Burns & McDonnell took a leap forward with the launch of a novel business development program designed to educate and equip small and diverse businesses with tools they need to succeed in today’s ever-changing business environment.

Being a strong advocate for entrepreneurs is one of my passions, and always has been. It’s a mindset I have and what I encourage those around me to adopt as well, because it opens up the mind to envisioning new possibilities.

To commemorate Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Burns & McDonnell invited Hannibal B. Johnson to share his insights on diversity, equity and inclusion. As an attorney, author and historian, Johnson has a thoughtful perspective about the past and the value of storytelling to support diversity and elevate everyone.

Creating successful collaboration between firms in the construction industry, their clients and diverse suppliers can be challenging. The 30 Crossing project, a $632 million effort that is part of the Arkansas State Highway and Transportation Department’s (ARDOT) largest highway construction endeavor ever, provides an example of how diverse suppliers significantly contribute to complex construction projects.

Before joining Burns & McDonnell, Cliff Cate worked for a disadvantaged business. He now finds opportunities for Burns & McDonnell to join forces with minority-owned businesses throughout the country to implement critical infrastructure solutions in the water industry.

The Department of Defense awards more than $80 billion annually in contracts to small businesses through programs run by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). That is critical funding some small, diverse companies may not qualify for because they historically have not had access to opportunities majority-owned and larger companies had.

Vernal Stewart is an affable man who has built a life defined by relentless entrepreneurship and unyielding optimism. In 1986, he started his career by founding Engineering Polymers Co. While his youth and inexperience created some barriers, Stewart’s hustle and humility ultimately resulted in professional success. Today, Stewart serves as the president of SE3, a professional services company specializing in civil engineering.

After operating her own company for 15 years, Angela Hurt shares insight on the importance of authenticity and diversifying to grow a successful business.

Two employee-owners discuss the benefits of attending a historically Black university. The environment and experience helped them learn, grow and thrive.

A strong, diverse supplier network requires a corporate commitment to diversify and create relationships that work for the benefit of all involved.

A utility in Southern California is investing in Black suppliers, boosting economic activity and meeting customer needs while embracing regional diversity.

A strong network of diverse suppliers requires a corporate commitment to diversity and fostering mutually beneficial relationships.

The president of a Black-owned civil and structural engineering firm reflects on the life of a civil rights leader who was instrumental in effecting change in more ways than one.