Avangrid Furthers Supplier Diversity Commitment by Joining NVBDC

Avangrid, Inc., a leading sustainable energy company and a member of the Iberdrola Group, announced that it has joined the National Veteran Business Development Council (NVBDC), an organization dedicated to providing greater access and opportunities for certified veteran-owned businesses across the United States. This partnership reinforces Avangrid’s commitment to supporting veteran entrepreneurs and fostering an inclusive and diverse supply chain.

“At Avangrid, we're dedicated to creating a business environment where diversity is not just welcomed, but celebrated,” said Pedro Azagra, Avangrid CEO. “This new partnership with the National Veteran Business Development Council illustrates that commitment and is one of the many ways we can ensure our supply chain is as dynamic and robust as the communities we serve. Our supplier diversity program continues to grow each year and I expect our engagement with NVBDC will only further our program by fostering meaningful connections, driving innovation and contributing to the economic growth of service-disabled and veteran-owned businesses.”

As a corporate member, Avangrid will have access to NVBDC's comprehensive database of certified veteran-owned businesses and will participate in various NVBDC events, including networking opportunities, educational workshops, and business matchmaking sessions. This collaboration aims to enhance Avangrid's supplier diversity initiatives while providing veteran business owners with valuable opportunities to expand their businesses. NVBDC's rigorous certification process ensures that veteran-owned businesses meet the highest standards of excellence. This certification provides corporate members like Avangrid with the confidence that they are partnering with businesses that are not only veteran-owned but also capable and reliable.

"We are honored to welcome Avangrid as our newest corporate member," said Brigadier General (Ret) Richard Miller, president of NVBDC. "Their commitment to sustainability and community aligns perfectly with our mission to empower veteran business owners. Together, we can create more opportunities and drive meaningful change."

Avangrid's supplier diversity program is centered on creating an inclusive and equitable environment that recognizes and values the unique qualities of each individual. The program aims to promote the participation of businesses owned by ethnic minorities, women, service-disabled veterans, veterans, people with disabilities, and LGBTQI+ individuals in the company's procurement process. Avangrid believes that innovation thrives in diverse and inclusive settings and has aligned its Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion strategy with this belief by focusing on increasing representation, driving opportunity, and building community. In 2023, Avangrid grew its supplier diversity program and surpassed its diverse supplier spend goal by 24%, achieving $284 million and creating a significant economic impact.