Supplier Diversity Program

It is the goal of Prince William Water to strengthen and maintain SWaM businesses (Small, Women-and Minority-owned and service-disabled veteran-owned businesses) and to encourage their participation in Prince William Water contracts. Toward that objective, SWaM firms are urged to compete for Prince William Water business and it is suggested that majority firms establish partnerships, joint ventures and subcontracts with SWaM firms when competing for Prince William Water business.

SWaM firms are encouraged to obtain certification from the Virginia Department of Small Business and Supplier Diversity (SBSD). Prince William Water recognizes SBSD-certified firms for many procurement opportunities. Prince William Water also recognizes certifications from other entities such as the National Minority Supplier Development Council (NMSDC) and its local affiliate Carolina-Virginia Minority Supplier Development Council (CVMSDC) and certification programs from other states.

SWaM firms interested in doing business with Prince William Water are encouraged to register with the Department of Procurement by visiting the Vendor Registration Page. Prince William Water will directly solicit purchases with an estimated value of $20,000 or less from qualified vendors. The participating firms should provide evidence of SWaM certification during the registration process. Most Prince William Water procurement opportunities will be posted on Prince William Water’s website and the Commonwealth of Virginia e-Procurement portal eVA (Virginia Business Opportunity Portal).

General contractors are encouraged to use the SBSD Directory or other relevant sources to identify SWaM firms to work on Prince William Water contracts.

To access the SWAM Directory, please refer to the SBSD SWAM Vendor search page.

Explaining Supplier Diversity at Prince William Water

Prince William Water Hosts Second Annual Supplier Diversity Vendor Expo

Nearly 50 local businesses showcased their goods and services at Prince William Water’s second annual Supplier Diversity Vendor Expo on Wednesday, June 4, 2024. Held at Prince William Water’s headquarters in Woodbridge, Virginia, and organized by the Procurement Department, the event featured businesses certified as SWaM (Small Business; Woman-Owned Business; Minority-Owned Business; or Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Business) vendors. These businesses had the opportunity to promote their products, strengthen existing relationships with Prince William Water, and forge new connections through networking with staff and leadership.

For a directory of this year's Expo participants, click here.