Skip to Main Content
ajax loader animation
ajax loader animation

Supplier Enablement, Engagement, and Development (SEED)

We empower small business suppliers to take root and rise.

A man and a woman are talking to another woman about the Seed program.

“At Con Edison, partnering with small businesses is more than a commitment; it’s something we cultivate and recognize is vital as we continue to work toward a clean energy future.”

—Tim Cawley
Chairman and CEO
Con Edison, Inc.

Our Commitment

For over half a century, we have demonstrated our commitment to the community by increasing our spending with diverse suppliers. We believe that including small businesses in our supply chain isn’t just an ethical obligation; it’s smart business. The more we help small businesses grow and succeed, the more they will stimulate economic growth and help meet the growing demand for the services and infrastructure our communities need to thrive.

Established in 1969, our small business program was among the first of all Fortune 500 companies. At the time, our initial contract award was $18,000 to one diverse supplier. Today, because of our partnership with small businesses, our reach has expanded significantly.

Over the past 3 years, the number of our small business suppliers has increased to 756, and we’ve awarded them more than $1.1 billion. This includes $163M to Women owned and $4.9M to Veteran owned small businesses.

Back to top

756

Total Small Business Suppliers

$163M

to Women Owned Small Businesses

$4.9M

to Veteran Owned Small Businesses


Increasing our supplier pool helps us promote competition, spark innovation, and mitigate risks. It also helps us invest in the social, cultural, and economic vitality of the communities we serve.

What We Buy

Con Edison and Orange & Rockland Utilities work with contractors and suppliers who can provide a variety of professional services, construction trades, materials, and equipment. View a list of our preferred services.

Back to top

Vendor Qualification Process

Suppliers must be qualified and approved before they can be included on bid lists. Currently, we only accept applications from suppliers who have received an invitation indicating a specific need.

If you receive an invitation, you must complete a third-party Due Diligence Questionnaire (DDQ), which helps us assess potential risks in 14 different categories. Our Third-Party Risk Assessment team manages this process. Please contact them with any questions.

All approved suppliers must follow our Vendor Code of Conduct.

Learn more about supplier terms and conditions on our Supply Chain site.

 

Back to top

Supporting Small Business Suppliers

Our SEED team is committed to helping small businesses grow, connect, and succeed. We provide tools, networking opportunities, and ongoing support. Through our Supplier Enablement, Engagement, and Development (SEED) strategy, we work alongside you to build long-term success.

Back to top

Get Started

Review these resources to guide you through next steps.

Step 1

Create a profile on our Small Business Supplier Portal.

Step 2: Insurance Requirements

Ensure you have the required general and excess liability insurance.

Step 3: Vendor Self-Certification Form

Submit a completed self-certification form.*

*All suppliers awarded a contract must complete an annual self-certification form.


Partnerships and Mentorship

Strong partnerships make for stronger supply chains, and we’re committed to helping you build them. Through our SEED network, we connect small businesses with prime suppliers, industry peers, and business development resources.

Our mentorship programs are designed to help you grow your skills, expand your networks, and gain insights into doing business with us. Whether you’re seeking guidance, introductions, or opportunities to collaborate, we’re here to support you every step of the way.

Back to top

Frequently Asked Questions

Here’s a quick look at common questions. For a full list, please view our FAQ page.

Back to top