What we learnt from our first supplier event
Our first diverse supplier event, held in partnership with WEConnect, showed the power of collaboration. Hear from businesses about what they learned.
More and more companies recognise the importance of diversity and inclusion in today’s fast-paced business world. So what happens when you bring more than forty attendees from diverse suppliers together in one event?
At Standard Chartered, we believe working with diverse suppliers is a win-win: it has a positive impact on our communities, and helps us serve our customers.
Our first ever supplier event
In Hong Kong, we brought together over forty attendees from diverse suppliers, ranging from women-owned businesses, social enterprises and LGBT+ suppliers to small and micro enterprises.
The event was held in partnership with WEConnect, an organisation which helps women business owners compete in the global marketplace and achieve growth.
At the event, we saw first-hand just how valuable our supplier diversity programme is in driving innovation, fostering growth and enriching our business landscape.
What attendees said
“By meeting with other diverse suppliers in the SCB supply chain allowed us to recognise the journey we are all on and we face similar challenges to others – we’re not on our own!
It was fantastic to hear about the Bank’s programme and how they can support us in driving our business model to create not only economic growth for our own business but how we can also support diverse businesses to create a knock on effect.
The insights from WEConnect have been hugely valuable and as a result, we will be signing up as a member to find out how we can build a stronger business going forward.”
– 3 Drums Limited
“The Supplier Diversity and Inclusion Event hosted by Standard Chartered Bank in Hong Kong exemplified a strong commitment to promoting diversity and corporate responsibility.
I was privileged to participate as a speaker, representing WEConnect International and discussing how our organization supports women-owned businesses to enhance their global competitiveness.
It was inspiring to witness Standard Chartered Bank’s comprehensive initiative, with all committees, councils, and business teams aligned towards a unified objective. Their dedication resonated clearly with both their customers and suppliers, and WEConnect International shares their vision wholeheartedly.”
– Richard Wong, Greater China Market Lead, WEConnect International
What’s next?
We believe in the power of collaboration and aim to host this event annually going forward. Our supplier diversity programme is not merely a box to be checked — it’s a pathway to creating more opportunities, sparking innovation, and ensuring that businesses of all backgrounds can participate.