OREANDA-NEWS. The United States Postal Service was named the number-one government agency for providing business opportunities to diverse business owners throughout the United States. The Postal Service will be honored amongst other organizations during DiversityBusiness.com’s "16th Annual National Summit", taking place today.

More than 1.5 million companies with diverse business owners participated in an online election held by DiversityBusiness.com, the nation's leading multicultural B2B online website, to determine the top organizations.

The award is based on participants’ responses to questions regarding volume, consistency and quality of business initiatives a government agency grants to companies owned by women and minorities. The Postal Service has ranked among the top federal agencies in the category for 15 consecutive years, and has been awarded the top honor for the last five years.

“The Postal Service is honored to receive this award again this year,” said Megan J. Brennan, Postmaster General and CEO. “The Supplier Diversity program continues to strengthen our competitiveness in the marketplace. I am proud of our continued commitment to maintaining a strong, competitive and diverse supplier base.”

Supplier diversity is a core component of Postal Service operations. Regular activities include promoting supplier registration, conducting workshops and one-on-one business meetings, and maintaining a prominent presence online so businesses can find information about effectively marketing their supplies and services.

“Throughout the supply chain process, we carefully evaluate proposals and solicitation criteria to ensure the consideration of small, minority-owned, and women-owned business participation,” Brennan said.

The Postal Service’s Supplier Diversity team also maintains memberships and relationships with premier multicultural business and trade associations, including serving as a board member for the National Minority Supplier Development Council’s capital region.

According to DiversityBusiness.com, the elite “Div50” list has become the most recognized and respected in the country. Companies honored have truly differentiated themselves in the market place in a time when diversity is on the rise.

"We are honored that the Postal Service has retained the number one position,” said Kenton Clarke, President and CEO of DiversityBusiness.com. “The Postal Service has continued to set the benchmark in driving economic opportunities throughout our diverse business communities while also promoting a strong, inclusive culture throughout their organization.”

“Coupled with the dedicated leadership of the organization it comes as no surprise why the organization has remained among the top each year. We truly applaud the Postal Service’s consistent efforts in moving our economy forward.”