Recognizing a Need
Despite having strong capabilities and proven track records, many small businesses face persistent barriers when competing to enter the supply chains of large companies. The Partnership’s Accelerator was designed to help close this gap. Unlike traditional capacity–building programs, the Accelerator focuses on connection rather than development, introducing procurement leaders to suppliers that are already ready to perform at scale.
Structured as a 15–week sprint from August through December 2025, the Accelerator provided participating businesses with concentrated exposure to key decision–makers, spotlighting ready–now suppliers, and aligning their solutions with immediate corporate needs in high–priority purchasing categories.
Partnering with Industry Leaders
The program would not be possible without the meaningful engagement of six leading organizations: Amazon, Baker Hughes, Chevron, Dow, Harris Health, and Shell.
Member participants identified priority buying categories where they had specific needs, with a particular focus on Maintenance, Repair, and Operations (MRO). This alignment ensured that the selected small businesses could showcase solutions directly relevant to corporate demand, creating value for both suppliers and companies.
Elevating Small Businesses
Seven small businesses were selected to participate in a virtual supplier showcase: ACME Equipment Distributors, EA1, Evans Industrial, Daily Thermetrics, Del Mar Safety Solutions,
Nuksys Fine Catering, and Piping Technology.
Entrepreneurs had the opportunity to present their capabilities and engage directly with corporate decision makers, opening the door to conversations and connections. The showcase is designed to spark follow–up discussions and next–step evaluations, signaling momentum beyond the program itself and reinforcing the value of direct access to procurement decision–makers.
Looking Back, Looking Forward
As conveners, we are proud of what the Houston Business Accelerator has accomplished in its second iteration. The program provided a platform for increased visibility for small businesses, while simultaneously offering corporations a direct connection to innovative suppliers who can strengthen their operations.
By rethinking how procurement can serve as a pathway to opportunity, the Accelerator reflects the Partnership’s broader Inclusive Leadership & Opportunity work, advancing
procurement practices that are both competitive and inclusive.
Get Involved
Are you interested in learning more and joining industry peers? All Partnership members are invited to our quarterly Procurement Exchange (Senior Manager+), and executive
leaders in Procurement and Supply Chain are encouraged to attend the semiannual Chief Purchasing Officer convening.
Don’t miss these forums designed to share insights, strengthen networks, and drive economic impact together.
To learn more about participating, contact Dave Feldman, Senior Director, Inclusive Leadership and Opportunity at [email protected].