Breakthrough: AEG’s Game Night Empowers L.A.’s Minority-Owned Businesses

In a significant move underscoring its commitment to economic inclusion, AEG recently hosted a game night at L.A. LIVE, aimed at facilitating procurement opportunities for 60 women and minority-owned businesses. This event provided a unique platform for these businesses to secure procurement opportunities with major Los Angeles-based corporations, including AMC Theatres, NBCUniversal, Netflix, and SONY.

The evening was a remarkable convergence of BIPOC, women, and minority-owned businesses with decision-makers from these corporations, allowing them to showcase their businesses and build vital connections. The event was part of AEG’s broader supplier diversity initiative in sports and entertainment, held in partnership with Diversity Professional Magazine, the Southern California Minority Supplier Development Council, and the Women’s Business Enterprise Council – West (WBEC-West).

Creating an Equitable Marketplace for Diversity

Christina Tulfo, Manager of Supplier Diversity at AEG, emphasized the importance of such events in creating opportunities for small and medium-sized minority businesses. “By creating opportunities to connect suppliers with buyers, we aim to create an equitable marketplace for diversity,” Tulfo stated. The event provided a platform for exploring new ventures, sharing ideas, and building partnerships, which are crucial for the growth and advancement of minority-owned businesses.

AEG’s efforts in this regard have not gone unnoticed. The company was recognized as the Corporation of the Year by the Greater Los Angeles African American Chamber of Commerce for its advancement of Los Angeles-based African American businesses. This recognition highlights AEG’s ongoing dedication to fostering an inclusive and diverse business environment.

Supporting Diverse Suppliers Through Vendor Stewardship

AEG’s commitment to diversity extends beyond networking events. The company’s Vendor Stewardship Program is a testament to its dedication to creating a diverse supply chain. This program helps minority-owned businesses obtain vendor certification, thereby increasing their exposure and expanding their client base.

Each year, AEG selects three vendors for the program, offering financial assistance with the first year’s certification fees and providing guidance on certification criteria, documentation, and application processes. For 2024, the selected vendors were Universal Art Gallery, a Latino-owned custom frame shop; Uprisers, a women-owned streetwear company; and Terminal B, a Black-owned scented candle business.

By helping BIPOC, veteran, LGBTQ+, and women-owned businesses navigate the certification process and understand its benefits, AEG opens new doors for these vendors, enabling them to expand their client base and access new markets. “Our support is invaluable for businesses looking to overcome the hurdles of certification and achieve growth,” Tulfo remarked.

Our Advice on the City

For those visiting Los Angeles, especially occasional travelers, we recommend exploring the vibrant business districts where many of these minority-owned businesses are located. Visiting these areas not only supports local entrepreneurs but also offers a unique glimpse into the diverse cultural fabric of the city.

For expert travelers, consider attending local business events and networking nights like the one hosted by AEG. These events provide an excellent opportunity to connect with the local business community, gain insights into the city’s economic landscape, and perhaps even discover new business ventures.

In conclusion, AEG’s initiatives highlight the importance of fostering diversity and inclusion within the business community. By supporting minority-owned businesses through networking events and vendor certification programs, AEG is paving the way for a more equitable and inclusive marketplace. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, engaging with these businesses and events can provide a richer, more meaningful experience of Los Angeles.