Diversity Lunch & Learn Event Hosted by BEP: Empowering Underrepresented Businesses for Success

Kaskaskia College, Southwestern Illinois College, and John A. Logan College, in partnership with the Illinois Business Enterprise Program (BEP), proudly invite businesses owned by minorities, women, veterans, and persons with disabilities to attend a Diversity Lunch & Learn event on July 16. The lunch will be held from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Southwestern Illinois College, 2500 Carlyle Ave., Belleville, IL 62221.

Through the event's informational and networking sessions, diversity suppliers will learn about the Business Enterprise Program (BEP) in the state of Illinois and will be equipped with the tools to complete their state certification application for the BEP. Launched by the Illinois Commission on Equity and Inclusion (CEI), the BEP is for businesses owned by minorities, women, veterans, and persons with disabilities. They are committed to fostering an inclusive, equitable, and competitive business environment that helps underrepresented businesses increase their capacity, grow revenue, and enhance credentials.

A representative from the State of Illinois will be in attendance to speak about the program and answer questions. This event also provides an opportunity to meet with other community colleges from throughout the southern part of the state. The BEP certification is recognized by various municipalities and organizations, aligning with their supplier diversity initiatives. The BEP certification is free.

Attendance is free for this event, but registration is required: https://bit.ly/4bOvRfV

Don't miss this opportunity to connect, learn, and grow with like-minded business leaders. Questions? Contact purchasing@swic.edu.