January is a reset button. It’s a chance to step back, refocus, and set the tone for the rest of the year. And if you’re running or contributing to a supplier diversity program, this is the time to move from reactive to proactive.
Whether you’re starting fresh or building off last year’s momentum, your Q1 approach can determine how much traction you get in 2025. Here’s how to make the most of January.
- Revisit (and Reset) Your Goals
Not all supplier diversity goals are created equal. Some are compliance-based. Others are aspirational. The most effective goals are grounded in both reality and business outcomes.This is the month to look at:
- Your overall supplier diversity spend targets
- Specific category or demographic goals (MBE, WBE, LGBTQ+, etc.)
- Cross-functional goals that tie to procurement, marketing, or client-facing KPIs
If your goals are unclear or scattered, align them now. Datalou helps teams track goal progress across departments, so you always know where you stand.
- Reconnect with Your Top Diverse Suppliers
Chances are you worked with several great suppliers last year. Don’t wait for the next RFP cycle to re-engage. Use January to:- Reach out and discuss upcoming opportunities
- Gather feedback on what worked (and didn’t)
- Explore ways to deepen the relationship
A strong Q1 partnership conversation can lead to better planning and performance throughout the year.
- Align Internally Before Initiatives Launch
Before campaign budgets are spent or new projects are scoped, get ahead of internal alignment:- Meet with procurement and marketing teams
- Clarify expectations on diverse supplier sourcing and tracking
- Ensure everyone knows how to access your supplier data tools
Datalou makes it easy to share dashboards and supplier insights across teams, so you don’t lose time chasing spreadsheets or emails.
- Clean Up Your Supplier Records
Outdated certifications? Inactive vendors? Duplicate entries? These things pile up quickly.Start the year with a quick data refresh. Datalou can help you:
- Verify current certifications
- Archive inactive suppliers
- Streamline classification and reporting
It’s not just about tidying up—it’s about making smarter decisions all year long.
Start Strong. Build Momentum.
Supplier diversity programs don’t build themselves. But January gives you a rare opportunity to lead with clarity, purpose, and precision.
Whether your focus is scaling spend, improving compliance, or demonstrating impact, Datalou gives you the tools to do it better.
Let’s make this year your most strategic yet.
