Business Partnership Initiative FAQs

What is the Business Partnership Initiative?
It is the name for our company's Supplier Diversity efforts. We are committed as company to develop mutually beneficial business partnerships and relationships with those who are as diverse as the world and the customers we serve. Through the Business Partnership Initiative, our goal is to provide greater opportunities for minority and women-owned businesses to participate in the competitive procurement and bid processes of Synovus and its family of companies.

What qualifies a business as a minority-owned?
A business must be at least 51% owned, operated, and controlled by a one or more minorities.

What qualifies a business as women-owned?
A business must be at least 51% owned, operated, and controlled by a one or more women.

What qualifies a business as a small business?
This is defined pursuant to Section 3 of the Small Business Act. Please check with your regional SBA Office or visit the SBA website since classification size varies by industry sector.

What population groups are classified as Minority?
These groups are defined as: Native American/Aleut/Eskimo/Hawaiian; African-American (Black); Asian Indian; Asian Pacific; Hispanic (Latino); or other groups defined by the Small Business Administration to be socially or economically disadvantaged. Pursuant to Section 8(a) of the Small Business Act.

What do we expect from our suppliers?
In establishing supplier relationships, we look for companies who pledge to provide:

• Ethical business conduct
• Quality products and services
• High standards of performance
• On-time delivery
• Competitive pricing
• Excellent customer service and support
• Added value (cost-savings analysis, ongoing support and maintenance)
• Support and share our vision – Our suppliers are motivated to develop working relationships with other minority and women-owned businesses.

What do I need to do to become a prospective supplier?
Before approaching Synovus, all suppliers should have some knowledge about our company. This information will assist you in determining if your products or services fit into our core purchasing areas.

You should register by completing our Corporate Supplier Profile Application. Doing this, will add your company’s profile to our supplier source directory database if it matches the scope of our purchasing needs.

Once you have completed the supplier registration process, you’ll receive a notification that we have received your supplier application.

If we have an immediate procurement need and your product or service matches the scope of our purchasing needs, you will be contacted for further discussion.

Do you require certification?
We request a copy of your certification if you are a minority, woman, or veteran’s disabled owned business entity.

I am not currently certified, what do I need to do to receive certification?
Please visit our supplier diversity links page to visit the websites of third-party certifying agencies.

Need More Information?


Rosie Long
Associate Director, Purchasing
PO Box 120
Columbus, Georgia 31902
706.649.2914