ORLANDO, Fla. -- The PGA of America and National Diversity Solutions (NDS), a Lexington, Ky. based certified minority-owned business, have launched a new Web site for the Golf Industry Supplier Diversity Initiative. This initiative is a qualification program created to infuse diversity into the golf industry, providing buyers within the golf industry the confidence necessary to develop long-term strategic business relationships with these suppliers.

Through this unique program, the goal of The PGA of America is to increase spending with minority- and women-owned businesses while, at the same time, growing participation from these same consumer segments in the game of golf.

In addition to the Web site launch, this week The PGA of America hosts the second annual Golf Industry Supplier Diversity Forum during the 56th PGA Merchandise Show, Jan. 29-31, in Orlando, Fla. This forum allows minority- and women-owned businesses to broaden their industry knowledge, meet key executives that drive golf's economic engines, stimulate interest and create opportunities to participate in the $76 billion golf industry.

"The PGA of America created the Golf Industry Supplier Diversity Initiative to develop a network of qualified minority- and women-owned businesses and provide the platform to start or enhance strategic alliances between golf industry procurement officers and PGA Qualified Diverse Suppliers," said PGA of America Chief Executive Officer Joe Steranka. "The PGA of America takes pride in being a leader in promoting equal opportunities in all areas of our operations, and we encourage others in the industry to do the same."

The Web site, PGA.com/supplierdiversity, contains business profiles of the initial minority- and women- owned businesses that have passed the qualification program to become a PGA Qualified Diverse Supplier. There also is information on how to become a PGA Qualified Diverse Supplier and accompanying applications.

In order to become a PGA Qualified Diverse Supplier, applicants are evaluated by The PGA of America, in conjunction with National Diversity Solutions, and information such as three-year sales history, insurance certificates, references, signification affiliations, certifications, and financial/risk information is reviewed and verified. Companies are also asked to complete a scored organizational assessment. The score of the assessment, combined with the additional verified information, provides The PGA of America the necessary vetting to utilize these companies and promote their capabilities to the golf industry.

The PGA of America's commitment to achieving greater diversity in participation in the game and business of golf is a component of the Association's strategic and annual business plans. Play Golf America Days in minority communities and scholarship programs introduce young people of color to the game and access to the golf profession. Through its workforce and supplier programs, The PGA of America has been a leader of diversity and inclusion in the golf industry.

About National Diversity Solutions
National Diversity Solutions (NDS), headquartered in Lexington, Ky., is certified by the Kentuckiana Minority Business Council, an affiliate of the National Minority Business Suppliers Development Council. NDS works with clients to quantify the value of diversifying their supply chain by identifying the costs, benefits and risks of pursuing new, diverse approaches. We effectively plan for our clients' supplier diversification success by developing comprehensive communication and risk management strategies. Utilizing customized technology solutions, such as our exclusive Supplier Collaboration Portal, NDS can recruit, access, qualify and maintain a list of those suppliers best suited to help our clients achieve their unique goals. Through strategic sourcing and ongoing supplier relationship management, we can also execute a successful supplier diversification plan by completely bidding client needs to a diverse group of qualified suppliers. More information about National Diversity Solutions may be found by visiting NDSolutions.org.

About The PGA of America
Since 1916, The PGA of America's mission has been twofold: to establish and elevate the standards of the profession and to grow interest and participation in the game of golf.

By establishing and elevating the standards of the golf profession through world-class education, career services, marketing and research programs, the Association enables PGA Professionals to maximize their performance in their respective career paths and showcases them as experts in the game and in the $76 billion golf industry.

By creating and delivering dramatic world-class championships and exciting and enjoyable golf promotions that are viewed as the best of their class in the golf industry, The PGA of America elevates the public's interest in the game, the desire to play more golf, and ensures accessibility to the game for everyone, everywhere.

The PGA of America brand represents the very best in golf.