Worcester event connects businesses with potential opportunities

October 10, 2025 (WORCESTER, MA) – Keolis Commuter Services (Keolis), the operations and maintenance partner for the MBTA Commuter Rail, hosted its annual Supplier Diversity in Procurement Trade Expo at the DCU Center in Worcester on Thursday. The fair connected over 60 diverse-owned businesses with potential opportunities for work with Keolis and other local businesses that participated in the fair.

“Keolis is committed to investing in the communities we serve,” said John Killeen, GM and CEO of Keolis. “Ensuring Keolis has a diverse group of suppliers is a priority, and we’re proud to once again open this fair up to other local businesses looking to diversify their providers as well.”

“Events like this Diversity in Procurement Fair highlights what inclusive economic growth looks like in action,” said Senator Robyn Kennedy. “When women- and minority-owned businesses have real access to contracts and partnerships, we strengthen not just our local economy, but the shared values of equity and opportunity that define Worcester and the Commonwealth.”

“Keolis is an important provider and partner for transportation services in our state and strives to see diversity in their procurement methods,” said Representative James O’Day. “I appreciate that they hosted today's fair to help facilitate diverse partnerships between providers and suppliers to strengthen our communities and economy."

“Organizations such as City Government strive to attain diversity in their workforce,” said Worcester Mayor Joseph Petty. “Diversity in Procurement its logical extension, it promotes the inclusion of businesses that have been historically underrepresented by increasing its supplier base to businesses owned by minorities, women, LGBTQ+, and persons with disabilities.”

Keolis hosted the expo in partnership with the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA), and the Greater New England Minority Supplier Development Council, Inc. (GNEMSDC), with additional support from the Worcester Business Development Corporation (WBDC).

The fourth annual event was the largest yet, with more than 60 exhibitors. It included space for diverse-owned businesses to exhibit their services, along with workshops about diversity in procurement and how to work with Keolis and other participating businesses.