Avangrid, Inc. (NYSE: AGR), a leading sustainable energy company and member of the Iberdrola Group, has announced its membership with the National Veteran Business Development Council (NVBDC). This organization is dedicated to enhancing access and opportunities for certified veteran-owned businesses across the U.S. Avangrid’s partnership with NVBDC underscores its commitment to supporting veteran entrepreneurs and promoting a diverse, inclusive supply chain.
“At Avangrid, we are committed to fostering a business environment where diversity is celebrated,” said Pedro Azagra, Avangrid CEO. “Joining the National Veteran Business Development Council is a testament to this commitment. Our partnership will help ensure our supply chain is as dynamic and robust as the communities we serve. We anticipate that this engagement will enhance our supplier diversity program, drive innovation, and contribute to the growth of service-disabled and veteran-owned businesses.”
As a corporate member, Avangrid will gain 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 efforts and offer veteran business owners valuable opportunities for expansion. NVBDC’s rigorous certification process assures Avangrid that it is partnering with businesses that are both veteran-owned and reliable.
“We are honored to welcome Avangrid as our newest corporate member,” said Brigadier General (Ret) Richard Miller, President of NVBDC. “Their dedication to sustainability and community aligns with our mission to empower veteran business owners. Together, we will create more opportunities and drive meaningful change.”
Avangrid’s supplier diversity program focuses on creating an inclusive environment that values the unique qualities of each individual. The program promotes the participation of businesses owned by ethnic minorities, women, service-disabled veterans, veterans, people with disabilities, and LGBTQI+ individuals in its procurement process. Avangrid believes that innovation flourishes in diverse settings and aligns its Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion strategy with this belief. In 2023, Avangrid grew its supplier diversity program, surpassing its diverse supplier spend goal by 24% with $284 million, creating a significant economic impact.
