Supplier Diversity

"LG&E and KU Energy are leaders in the area of supplier diversity. It is important that we partner with diverse companies. Our annual involvement in the Joint Utility Conference and our other ongoing efforts to expand opportunities for existing and new diverse suppliers speak to our commitment. Likewise, our suppliers and contractors are equally committed to having workforces reflective of the communities we serve. We strongly encourage and facilitate actions to lead our internal business leaders and external prime suppliers to provide and expand opportunities to small and diverse business enterprises including minority-, women-, HUBZone, LGBTQ+, veteran-, and service-disabled veteran- owned business enterprises in the performance of their contracts Keeping a level playing field for all only enhances the strength of our relationships and establishes diverse partnerships."

— Paul W. Thompson, CEO and President

employees at a supplier diversity event

LG&E and KU have long recognized Supplier Diversity as a corporate value and one that we expect our prime suppliers and contractors to actively embrace. LG&E and KU strongly encourages its Prime Suppliers to provide equal opportunities to small business enterprises including minority-, women-, HUBZone, LGBTQ+, veteran-, and service-disabled veteran- owned small business enterprises in the performance of their contracts. As an industry leader, we know that supplier diversity is key to sustaining our long-term success.

The Supplier Diversity Department’s responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

  • Designing and implementing a world-class supplier diversity program to meet PPL, LG&E and KU’s existing and future needs;
  • Identifying company-wide contracting and purchasing opportunities to ensure that diverse businesses have the opportunity to bid competitively;
  • Identifying diverse businesses to bid on opportunities throughout the company; and
  • Participating in business development organizations and activities to promote LG&E and KU’s commitment to supplier diversity.

For more information about LG&E and KU Supplier Diversity, contact Michelle Thompson, Supplier Diversity manager.

Certification Requirements

To be eligible to participate in LG&E and KU’s Supplier Diversity Program, your company must be certified as at least one of the following:

  • Women-owned business — A company that is at least 51 percent owned, managed and controlled by one or more women, or — in the case of a publicly owned business — at least 51 percent of stock owned by one or more women;
  • Minority-owned business — A company that is at least 51 percent owned, managed and controlled by one or more minority persons;
  • LGBTQ+ Business—A company that is at least 51% owned, operated, managed, and controlled by an LGBTQ+ person or persons;
  • Designated as a Small Disadvantaged, HUB Zone, Veteran-owned, or Service-disabled Veteran-owned business as defined by the Small Business Administration (SBA).

Program participation requires that all businesses provide proof of certification through a local, national, state or federal certifying agency.