About the Impact Awards

The Impact Awards recognizes the outstanding performance and achievements of the members and affiliates of the TriState Minority Supplier Development Council (TSMSDC) during the past year. The occasion reaffirms our belief in, and support of the future of our youth by awarding scholarships to deserving high school graduating students. Since its inception in 1994, the coveted awards program has become the council’s graduating most anticipated event to businesses and students who have excelled in service and individual achievement. The elegant gala celebrates service and volunteerism, and annually raises funds for the worthwhile programs of TSMSDC, and its Education Foundation.

Each year, the Impact Award is presented in four categories: Corporation of the Year (for distinction in minority business opportunities); Corporate Representative of the Year (for distinction in personal leadership and support of minority businesses); Minority Suppliers of the Year in four categories (for distinction as a viable business and supporter of TSMSDC); and Impact of the Year (for distinction in extraordinary contributions and exclusive influence).

Selection Process: The MBEIC sent business surveys, via the council, to all TSMSDC member corporations. The Corporation of the Year award honors the corporate member who has made outstanding and extraordinary contributions in developing and expanding minority business opportunities. The MBEIC Corporation of the Year Committee reviewed and vetted the surveys submitted based upon the criteria and information received, used segments of the National MBEIC “Best Practices,” and narrowed the responses to the top finalists. The local committee selects and presents the winner of the influential Corporation of the Year.

In contrast, the Corporate Representative of the Year is decided on the basis of popular opinion, garnered through the support of minority businesses affiliated with the council. This award is a tribute to the representative who, through personal leadership, has involved his or her corporation in the implementation and/or expansion of its supplier diversity program and recognizes diversity, equity and inclusion as a business imperative.

The TSMSDC corporate members submit nominations for Minority Suppliers of the Year based on the criteria of a certified minority supplier for distinguished viability, and business acumen in the areas of product, quality, customer service, timely delivery, industry knowledge and professional staff. The votes are tallied and awards are presented.

The Council’s staff selects and presents the highest honor, Impact of the Year Award. The awards signify personal leadership, commitment and extraordinary contributions to TSMSDC.