Empowering Black Business Enterprises to Access High-Value Contracting Opportunities
Detroit, MI | July 17, 2025 — The National Business League (NBL) has officially opened applications for the 2025–2026 cohort of its groundbreaking National Buyer Supplier Program (NBSP). As the only national initiative dedicated to enhancing supplier readiness for Black-owned and underrepresented businesses, the NBSP continues to break barriers and create opportunities for economic inclusion.
Now in its fifth year, the NBSP has garnered support from an impressive roster of Fortune 500 companies, including Cummins, DTE Energy, Ford, General Motors, Lear, Stellantis, and Toyota. Since its inception, the program has facilitated over $150 million in contract opportunities for participating businesses, with 60% of alumni achieving double-digit growth within two years of completion.
Addressing the Supplier Readiness Gap
Despite offering competitive pricing and high-quality services, many Black Business Enterprises (BBEs) face systemic challenges in accessing corporate and government contracting opportunities, particularly in tier-one and tier-two supply chains. The NBSP is designed to bridge this gap by equipping businesses with the tools, strategies, and connections needed to thrive. The program focuses on key areas such as:
- Innovation and value creation
- Customer-centric solutions
- Supply chain integration
- Risk mitigation strategies
- Strategic alignment with corporate procurement goals
“Many of our businesses are capable, but they need the infrastructure, strategy, and access to fully participate at scale,” said Dr. Forrest Carter, Ph.D., National Director of the NBSP. “Our program is built to transform readiness into results—moving businesses from the sidelines to the supply chain.”
Program Details
The NBSP is a 10-month hybrid accelerator tailored for established small businesses with growth potential. Participants will benefit from:
- Hands-on training led by national supply chain experts
- Two months of post-program mentorship
- A mix of virtual instruction and in-person events, including orientation and graduation
- Curated matchmaking opportunities with Fortune 500 and federal buyers
Eligibility Criteria:
- Operate under a B2B model
- At least three years in business
- Annual revenues between $250,000 and $500,000
- Proven product-market fit
While the program primarily targets established businesses, early-stage companies with innovative or disruptive offerings may be considered on a case-by-case basis. Applicants must also meet federal or industry standards for being socially and economically disadvantaged.
Cohort Launch at the 125th National Business League Conference
The 2025–2026 NBSP cohort will be unveiled during the 125th National Business League Conference, scheduled for August 21–23, 2025, at the Hilton Atlanta Hotel in Atlanta, GA. This historic event will feature:
- The public announcement of the new NBSP cohort
- An awards ceremony for the graduating class
- Exclusive panels, workshops, and seminars tailored for NBSP participants
- Waived conference fees for all accepted applicants
Attendance at the conference is mandatory for all program participants, ensuring they gain maximum value from the event’s resources and networking opportunities.
Apply Today
Applications are open to businesses across all industries, with special consideration for those aligned with NBSP’s Business Opportunity List, developed in collaboration with corporate partners. Interested businesses can submit their applications at www.nationalbusinessleague.org/national-buyer-supplier-program.
About the National Business League
Founded in 1900 by Booker T. Washington, the National Business League is the nation’s oldest and largest trade association dedicated to advancing Black-owned and underrepresented businesses. With chapters in all 50 states and global partnerships across Africa, the Caribbean, and Latin America, the NBL is committed to fostering economic inclusion, innovation, and sustainable growth. Through initiatives like the NBSP, the League is paving the way for diverse suppliers to thrive in competitive global markets.
For media inquiries, interviews, or additional information, please contact:
June Ings
Public Relations
Marie June and Associates, Inc.
313-600-3344
mariejune@me.com
#BlackBusiness #SupplierDiversity #EconomicInclusion
