Frequently Asked

What is the ABDS Program?

The America's Best Diverse Suppliers^(R) (ABDS) Program is a supplier recognition program that allows organizations to recognize ten of their best diverse suppliers on an annual basis across a third-party platform.  The ABDS Program serves as a database for any organization seeking diverse suppliers that have demonstrated an ability to successfully meet the procurement needs of a large organization.

What criteria is used to select diverse suppliers for this award?

Every organization participating in the ABDS Program is encouraged to establish their own criteria for defining outstanding performance.  This condition allows each organization to emphasize performance criteria that are most conform to their strategy, culture and structure.  The ABDS Program allows the criteria and process to change on an annual basis in response to changing business opportunities and environments. 

The ABDS Program applies to the following diverse suppliers:

- MBEs

- WBEs

- SDBEs

- Veteran-owned Businesses

- Businesses owned by people with Disabilities

- Businesses in HUB-Zones

Which organizations are participating in the ABDS Program?

The ABDS Program is designed for organizations that value innovation - especially when it comes to partnering with diverse communities.  Major League Baseball is the first organization to recognize the benefits of celebrating their best diverse suppliers through the ABDS Program.  Their support is reflective of true leadership.  MLB was the first professional league to break the color line and the world has benefited from the decision to allow players of diverse backgrounds to enrich the game.

When is the ABDS listing updated?

The ABDS listing is updated annual in June, in the anniversary edition of diversityinbusiness.com.  To commemorate MLB's leadership in advancing diversity, the World Series Champions are given the honor of debuting their best diverse suppliers in April, to mark the start of a new season.

How can my organization participate?