USHCC Applauds Ford for a 35 Year Commitment to it

WASHINGTON, July 11, 2013 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (USHCC) commends Ford Motor Company for its continued commitment to foster and develop minority-, women- and veteran-owned businesses through its Supplied Diversity and Development Program (SDD). The program, launched in 1978, has dedicated nearly $70 billion to minority suppliers, making Ford one of the leading corporations in minority supplier spending.

"The USHCC is proud that Ford, an industry leader in the automotive sector, has maintained its commitment for over three decades to diversifying their supply chain. As a result, Ford has empowered and assisted the growth of countless minority-owned businesses," said USHCC President & CEO Javier Palomarez. "Ford's SSD Program is an exemplary initiative that demonstrates how a major corporation can successfully work hand in hand with small businesses. For over three decades, Ford, through its SDD program has fostered the growth and development of small and minority owned businesses, creating jobs, spurring economic development and enriching communities throughout America."

In 2012, Ford's SDD program invested $5.7 billion in tier-one minority-owned suppliers and $2.1 billion in tier-two minority- and women-owned businesses. As a result, Ford was among the 2012 recipients of the USHCC's Million Dollar Club Award. This accolade is given to firms that have invested millions of dollars in Hispanic-owned suppliers.

Ford President and CEO Alan Mulally commented on his company's SDD program saying, "Diversity and inclusion are keys to our success at Ford. For 35 years we have been committed to building a supplier base that reflects our employees, our customers and our shareholders. A broad and diverse supplier base reinforces our commitment to the communities where we live and work."

Valentina Pereda USHCC Director of Communications 202-489-2932