In the realm of nonprofit organizations, procurement has traditionally been viewed through the lens of cost efficiency. However, an emerging paradigm shift towards mission-driven purchasing is redefining the role of procurement leaders in the sector. This approach recognizes procurement as a strategic function that can play a pivotal role in advancing the organization's mission.
Mission-driven purchasing is about aligning procurement decisions with the organization's core values and mission. It is about going beyond cost considerations, considering the social, environmental, and economic impacts of procurement decisions. For example, a nonprofit organization committed to environmental sustainability might prioritize purchasing from suppliers with strong environmental credentials.
The benefits of this approach are multi-fold. It strengthens the organization's reputation, enhances stakeholder engagement, and creates a positive impact on the community the nonprofit serves. Furthermore, it enables nonprofits to use their purchasing power to foster positive change, whether that's supporting local businesses, promoting fair trade, or reducing environmental footprint.
Benefits to nonprofit organizations engaging in mission-driven procurement include:
“Nonprofits can force-multiply a one-time investment by ensuring there is a strategic procurement plan surfacing suppliers that align with the mission, such as veteran-owned businesses for nonprofits that serve veterans, or locally owned business for a community food bank.”
— Sean Ullman | Senior Account Executive, Nonprofit, Amazon Business
To succeed in this new role, a holistic understanding of the organization's mission and the broader social and environmental context it operates within is crucial. You'll need to build strong relationships with suppliers who share your organization's values, and develop procurement policies that reflect these values. And, most importantly, you'll need to champion this approach within your organization, advocating for its adoption across all levels.
Procurement leaders looking to drive these types of changes in their organization should engage in the following tactics:
Mission-driven purchasing is not just a trend, but a strategic imperative for nonprofit procurement leaders. By embracing this approach, you can position procurement as a powerful tool to advance your organization's mission, create positive social impact, and drive meaningful change. Be the change agent your organization needs – lead the shift towards mission-driven purchasing.
To make the most impact, it's crucial for leaders to connect with their suppliers early in the year. By doing so, you can collaboratively game plan and strategize for the rest of the year, ensuring alignment and maximizing the positive outcomes of your mission-driven procurement efforts.