Accessibility Statement

Supplier Development

Doing business with a broad set of suppliers delivers value. It creates a competitive advantage by linking fresh perspectives and the nimble thinking of small and Socially/Economically-Disadvantaged ("Disadvantaged") businesses to our internal business needs. We actively seek to expand relationships with these suppliers, which we view as an untapped source of talent.

Our Program

Our work at Lilly Supplier Development involves engaging and empowering small and Disadvantaged businesses through mentorship and advocacy. This facilitates a supplier base more reflective of the community, allowing Socially/Economically-Disadvantaged groups to develop and prosper.

We engage by:

  • hosting Lilly Supplier Days annually in Indianapolis, Puerto Rico, and other Lilly locations for small and Disadvantaged suppliers based on business needs;

  • attending advocacy and community events to identify potential small and Disadvantaged suppliers;

  • sharing best practices with industry groups.

We empower through:

  • our Lilly Mentor Protégé Program that develops small and Disadvantaged suppliers by sharing Lilly methodologies and industry best practices while providing a Lilly Executive coach;

  • participating in organizations’ mentorship programs;

  • sponsoring scholarships for small and Disadvantaged suppliers.

We impact by:

  • connecting potential small and Disadvantaged suppliers to internal business partners;

  • including qualified small and Disadvantaged suppliers in competitive opportunities and category strategies;

  • expanding small and Disadvantaged suppliers’ economic potential by connecting them with other companies;

  • achieving results!

We are committed to be the best organization we can be and that will not be possible without fully embracing inclusion. We want to attract the best talent, work with the very best suppliers and deeply understand ALL of the patients who need our medicines. The Lilly supplier development program is an important component of our comprehensive diversity agenda.

David A. RicksChair and CEO, Eli Lilly and Company

Become a New Supplier

We require that a business be certified as a "small" or "disadvantaged" business. Where applicable, we use the expertise of third-party certifying organizations, so our staff can focus on maximizing opportunities for small and Disadvantaged businesses. Below are the various certifications Lilly accepts:

Learn about our Tier 2 Reporting Process.

New Suppliers FAQ