NE Valley Times

Arizona's major utilities hosted the second annual "Better Together" Business Resource Lunch on January 30, 2025, at SRP’s PERA Training and Conference Center in Tempe. The event attracted over 300 attendees, providing Arizona-based small and diverse suppliers with direct access to procurement teams from Salt River Project (SRP), Arizona Public Service (APS), Southwest Gas, and Tucson Electric Power (TEP).

"We know that strong supply chains are the foundation of a strong economy," stated Erika Castro, Supplier Diversity Manager at SRP. "By bringing together Arizona’s utilities and suppliers, we’re making it easier for local businesses to access opportunities and position themselves for success."

The event featured a reverse expo where utility procurement teams shared details on upcoming project opportunities across key business units such as generation, transmission, substation, and other operational areas. This format allowed local businesses to gain insights into what utilities seek in contractors and how to navigate the bidding process.

In addition to the expo, attendees listened to a keynote speaker discussing leadership through gratitude, offering perspectives on fostering positive work environments.

Arizona utilities depend on diverse supply chains to maintain reliability and adapt to industry demands. By collaborating with high-performing local businesses, they gain specialized expertise, increase competition in procurement processes, and bolster the local economy by creating jobs.

“The Better Together Business Resource Lunch was a remarkable success," added Castro. "The event's structure facilitated meaningful interactions and streamlined communication." She emphasized that supplier diversity support helps businesses connect with decision-makers who align with their capabilities.

The event highlights Arizona utilities' commitment to strengthening the region's economy by fostering an inclusive supplier base. This aligns with SRP’s strategy of supporting a diverse supplier network. In 2023 alone, SRP's collaboration with local suppliers created 2,338 jobs and supported incomes totaling $152.2 million.

SRP is a community-based public power utility serving about 1.1 million customers in the Phoenix area while providing water services to approximately 2.5 million residents.