TECO Energy’s Supplier Diversity Program aims to promote inclusive procurement practices that provide opportunities and develop relationships with diverse suppliers who provide products and services that help our company succeed in a highly competitive environment.
The relationship between TECO Energy employees with buying authority and small and diverse businesses gives our team more supplier choices and generates awareness of supply opportunities at TECO Energy.
We strive to accomplish our goals through:
Registry
Maintain a secure directory of potential product and service sources from diverse suppliers, including businesses with qualifying diversity certifications.
Representation
Identify qualified small and diverse businesses with qualifying diversity certifications to include in bid requests for procurements before issuing all formal RFPs and RFQs.
Relationships
Develop and retain business relationships as potential supply sources through events highlighting small and diverse businesses. In addition, we sponsor businesses for conferences and diverse business awards.
Resources
Access to external resources to support small and disadvantaged business concerns like growth and development strategies; also provide access to certifications and education on growth and sustainability initiatives.
Our Process:
If you’re interested in becoming a qualified TECO Energy (Tampa Electric or Peoples Gas) supplier, please:
- Register your business on the Smart by GEP Platform. Your information will be stored in a secure central repository and easily accessed by our contract managers.
- GEP will send a verification email. Follow the assigned steps and complete the registration. Please include relevant certifications, licenses, safety program information and ratings, financial reports, and any other supporting documentation. At that time, we'll determine whether your products or services meet our criteria as a qualified supplier. If there's no current need, your information will be kept on file for 12 months*.
- Review your application annually to keep it current. Your participation in our program will help maintain compliance with certain contract terms. For example, we'll be able to notify you of expiring certifications. You can conveniently update your company's information and contacts, ensuring we keep you updated.
*Registration does not guarantee participation in any sourcing events. Events are by invitation only, based on the needs of the project.
