By TIFFANY HANSON

In the dynamic and diverse business landscape of Indianapolis, supplier diversity has emerged as a pivotal force for progress, fostering equitable opportunities for businesses led by women and minorities. It’s not just a corporate initiative but a community-wide endeavor where every individual has a role to play and can actively contribute to this transformative movement.

Consider this: A study conducted by the Institute for Economic Empowerment of Women found that for every dollar spent at women-owned businesses, 76 cents goes back into the community. For minority-owned businesses, the figure is 68 cents. This highlights the direct correlation between where you choose to shop and the economic vibrancy of your community.

Acting as Intentional Consumers

Indianapolis is home to a rich tapestry of businesses, and many of them are owned or led by women and minorities. The power of consumer choices cannot be underestimated. By intentionally patronizing these businesses, residents of Indianapolis can contribute significantly to economic empowerment.

And while Indianapolis is a city with a thriving entrepreneurial spirit, it’s not without its challenges. Many women and minority entrepreneurs face barriers to entry, such as limited access to capital and networks. By consciously selecting their products and services, you become a partner in their journey and their success.

Small businesses, especially those owned by women and minorities, are critical for job creation and local economic development. In Indianapolis, these businesses employ thousands of people and contribute significantly to the city’s tax base. Your choice to support them helps sustain and build upon these job opportunities.

Developing Equitable Corporations

The impact of supplier diversity extends far beyond retail. Small business owners and corporations alike can play a pivotal role in diversifying their vendor pool. By considering women- or minority-owned law firms, consulting services, and other professional services, businesses of every size can help create a more inclusive, statewide business ecosystem.

Supplier diversity isn’t just about financial transactions; it’s about building a more inclusive and vibrant community. Supporting women and minority-owned businesses fosters a sense of unity and empowerment. It sends a powerful message that diversity is not only celebrated but embraced as a cornerstone of growth and prosperity.

Building a United Community

Your actions don’t stop at the cash register. When you choose to support women and minority-owned businesses, you inspire others to do the same. Word of mouth, social media, and local recommendations can create a ripple effect that boosts the visibility and success of these businesses. And if you don’t know where to get started, here are a few places to lean in:

• Inclusion Consultant Network (ICN) is a Latina-owned consulting firm committed and focused on providing clients with cultural competency training and services to answer industry-specific equity issues.
• Mid-States Minority Supplier Development Council (MSDC) is a part of the nation’s most dynamic force in developing successful relationships between America’s top corporations and supply-chain providers from the Asian, Black, Hispanic, and Native American communities.
• Women’s Equity (WE) Brunch Indy exists to connect women committed to advancing equity in Central Indiana. WE Brunch Indy offers diverse and inclusive programming that helps women find community, access mentorship, and grow equitably in their communities.
• Indianapolis Urban League (IUL) exists to empower African Americans and disadvantaged individuals to achieve social and economic equality and improved quality of living through programs, services, and advocacy in education, workforce development, entrepreneurship, health, and housing.

Supplier diversity isn’t a buzzword; it’s a transformative movement that can reshape the economic and social fabric of Indianapolis. By being intentional about where we invest our money, both at work and recreationally, we can actively contribute to a more inclusive and equitable community.

As consumers, we have the power to create change, one purchase at a time. Let’s choose to invest in businesses that reflect the diverse and vibrant spirit of our beloved city. Together, we can nurture inclusivity and build a brighter future for all.

By PATRINA WILLIAMS

In the heart of Indiana, a powerful movement is underway—one that is reshaping the landscape of healthcare access and economic opportunity for underserved communities. Business As Usual Consulting, a pioneering organization, is not just teaching homecare workers how to start successful businesses; it’s fostering a revolution in healthcare accessibility. Through their coaching and support, Business As Usual has empowered over 100 individuals—over the last 18 months—to realize their entrepreneurial dreams while simultaneously creating an inclusive network of homecare providers that is improving the quality of life for people of all ages, abilities, and health conditions.

The significance of homecare facilities, particularly for underserved communities in Indiana, cannot be overstated. Historically, marginalized communities have faced disparities in accessing adequate healthcare services. These disparities are often exacerbated by financial limitations, geographical barriers, and cultural differences. Business As Usual Consulting is tackling these issues head-on by empowering homecare workers to establish their own businesses, thereby addressing both the economic and healthcare challenges faced by minority communities.

One of the most remarkable aspects of Business As Usual’s approach is its emphasis on business ownership as a vehicle for empowerment. Through their ongoing coaching and guidance, individuals are not only discovering their path to financial self-sufficiency but are also becoming integral parts of a larger mission—a mission that revolves around creating a network of homecare providers that transcends socioeconomic and cultural boundaries, ensuring that quality care is accessible to everyone, regardless of their background.

The transformative impact of Business As Usual’s efforts goes beyond just financial gains. By nurturing homecare entrepreneurs, the organization is nurturing a culture of compassion and support. Homecare workers, armed with the skills and knowledge to create successful businesses, are also equipped to provide holistic care that extends beyond medical assistance. This compassionate approach enhances the overall well-being of patients and their caregivers, contributing to a more balanced and harmonious quality of life.

Central to Business As Usual’s vision is the concept of accessibility. They are not merely focusing on creating businesses; they are creating a web of interconnected homecare providers that cater to diverse needs. The organization’s commitment to serving people of all ages, abilities, and health situations is a testament to its dedication to inclusivity. This approach not only enriches the lives of those receiving care but also supports the caregivers who often undertake the vital yet challenging role of supporting their loved ones.

As Business As Usual’s impact radiates across Indiana, it is sowing the seeds of a more equitable healthcare system. By enabling homecare entrepreneurs to establish sustainable businesses, the organization is fostering economic growth within minority communities. This, in turn, bolsters local economies and contributes to the overall well-being of the state.

In a society where healthcare can be a luxury and access a challenge, Business As Usual Consulting is a beacon of hope. Through their coaching, they are empowering individuals to not only secure their financial futures but also to provide a service that touches lives and uplifts communities. By creating a network of homecare providers, they are paving the way for a more accessible and compassionate healthcare landscape.

Interested in learning more or connecting with Business As Usual Consulting? Registration is now open for the Millionaire Billionaire Trillionaire Homecare Conference on September 8-9 in Indianapolis. Tickets and sponsorship opportunities can be secured through Eventbrite.

SPECIAL TO THE RECORDER

INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. – Aug. 16, 2023 – Okovango ERP, a groundbreaking Indianapolis startup proudly announces the acquisition of a significant $2 million contract with Finite Business Solutions, a prominent accounting firm based in Austin, Texas. This strategic alliance is poised to revolutionize business operations and process optimization.

“We are excited to embark on this transformative journey alongside Finite Business Solutions,” said Seabelo Silitshena, Co-founder and CTO of Okovango ERP. “This substantial contract underscores the value of Okovango ERP’s advanced features, showcasing our dedication to empowering businesses with comprehensive and efficient solutions.”

Ben Ogbebor, CEO of Okovango ERP, added, “This milestone reflects our commitment to driving innovation and excellence in the realm of business management. We are thrilled to join forces with Finite Business Solutions to deliver unparalleled value to our clients. Additionally, this collaboration will contribute to job growth in Indianapolis and further establish the city as a genuine tech startup hub.”

Under the agreement terms, Okovango ERP will furnish Finite Business Solutions and its clients with a comprehensive suite of cutting-edge functionalities, including Accounting, Human Resources Management (HRM), Customer Relationship Management (CRM), Project Management, Point of Sales (POS) and Product and Inventory Management. The goal of this partnership is to elevate the operational efficiency and effectiveness of Finite’s client services.

“This partnership with Okovango ERP signifies a new era of innovation for Finite Business Solutions,” said Trung Pham, CEO of Finite Business Solutions. “We are eager to leverage the state-of-the-art capabilities of Okovango ERP to provide our clients with unparalleled solutions that will fuel their success and growth.”

The contract outlines the delivery of Okovango ERP’s platform to serve over 800 small- to medium-sized Enterprises within Finite’s existing client base, translating to an estimated monthly recurring revenue of $150,000, equivalent to $1.8 million annually. The agreement also allows for expanding services to an additional 300 clients at the same per-client subscription fee, subject to mutual agreement.

Okovango ERP and Finite Business Solutions are dedicated to ensuring a seamless transition by aligning their services with the completion of the Vantaca accounting software system integration to meet Finite’s service standards.

“We are confident that this partnership will create a strong synergy between our organizations, leading to mutual growth and success,” added Silitshena. “Together, we will deliver unmatched value to businesses seeking advanced solutions to meet their operational needs.”

This collaboration underscores Finite Business Solutions’ commitment to supporting and promoting these services for a minimum of five calendar years from the subscription commencement. The agreement also guarantees that subscription renewal fees will not increase by more than 10% annually during this five-year duration, offering clients stability and predictable cost management.

The partnership between Okovango ERP and Finite Business Solutions signifies a potent amalgamation of innovation, expertise and commitment, poised to redefine the landscape of business management solutions.

For more information on Okovango ERP, go to www.okovango.com.