FAQ’s-Frequently Asked Questions

Why did American Red Cross establish this initiative?
The American Red Cross is committed to being representative of America in its people, programs and services. As part of this commitment, we are dedicated to promoting a supplier diversity process that develops and promotes mutually beneficial relationships with diverse suppliers resulting in best quality, value and timely purchase contracts that demonstrate fiscal stewardship and generate goodwill.

Can I work with the Red Cross in my local community?
Red Cross field units and chapters also offer contracting and purchasing opportunities within their local communities. Interested Diverse Business Enterprises (DBEs) are encouraged to take advantage of the opportunity to build relationships with local Red Cross units for the development and growth of the business and the units. Visit www.redcross.org to find your local Red Cross.

If my business is not already certified as a minority-, woman-, veteran-, or person with a disability-owned or small disadvantaged business enterprise where can I get information on certification?

The following web-sites can be used to begin the certification process:

National Minority Supplier Development Council (NMSDC)
212-944-2430
http://www.nmsdcus.org

National Women Business Owners Corporation (NWBOC)
800 675-5066
http://www.nwboc.org

Women's Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC)
202-872-5515 ext.12
http://www.wbenc.org

Small Business Administration (SBA)
http://www.sba.gov

Asian American Supplier Council
http://www.uspaacc.org

Center for Women’s Business Research
202 638-3060
http://www.womensbusinessresearch.org

Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA)
http://www.mbda.gov

U.S. Hispanic Chamber of Commerce
202 842-1212
http://www.ushcc.com

What else should I know?

The regulatory nature of our business limits opportunities for some operational requirements. The American Red Cross will encourage and advocate that our majority suppliers actively support our Supplier Diversity initiative by seeking Second-Tier relationships with Diverse Business Enterprises (DBEs) to help us grow our base of diverse suppliers. This is known as “Second Tier Relationships”.

Who should I contact if have questions?

American Red Cross
Corporate Diversity Department
Supplier Diversity
2025 E. St. NW
Washington, DC 20006
diversity@usa.redcross.org