Kansas City, Missouri — Burns & McDonnell, a 100% employee-owned engineering, architecture and construction firm, partnered with Evergy and Ralph G. Moore & Associates (RGMA) to provide training and mentorship to help advance small businesses that make an impact in our communities.

On Tuesday, Aug. 25, Burns & McDonnell and Evergy recognized leaders from nearly 40 small and diverse businesses who graduated from the latest session of Accelerate, a six-month supplier diversity business development program.

Throughout the program, leaders from participating businesses received training and mentorship, with each participant paired with a sponsor from Evergy or Burns & McDonnell. The program provides practical knowledge, industry connections and tools participants can apply as they pursue new opportunities, strengthen their capabilities and build sustainable businesses.

“It’s rewarding to see another group of business leaders complete the Accelerate program and put what they’ve learned into action,” says Tammy Martin, strategic partners program director at Burns & McDonnell. “By bringing together mentorship, training and meaningful connections, we can help small businesses strengthen their capabilities and prepare for future opportunities.”

The graduation marks another year of collaboration among Burns & McDonnell, Evergy, RGMA, mentors and participating suppliers. Over the last five years, Burns & McDonnell has had a total business diversity spend of $5.9 billion and has worked with over 2,700 small businesses globally, with Accelerate serving as part of its broader effort to expand opportunities for small businesses.

About Burns & McDonnell

Burns & McDonnell is a family of companies bringing together engineers, construction and craft professionals, architects, planners, technologists and scientists to design and build critical infrastructure. With an integrated construction and design mindset, the firm offers full-service capabilities. Founded in 1898, Burns & McDonnell is 100% employee-owned and works from offices around the world. Learn more at burnsmcd.com.

About Evergy

Evergy, Inc. (NASDAQ: EVRG), serves customers in Kansas and Missouri. Evergy’s mission is to empower a better future. The company produces, transmits and delivers reliable, affordable and sustainable energy while supporting innovation, adaptability and the communities it serves. Learn more at evergy.com.

About RGMA

Ralph G. Moore & Associates (RGMA) is an internationally recognized leader in developing and enhancing corporate supplier diversity programs. RGMA brings decades of experience in supplier diversity, change management and business development to organizations seeking to strengthen supplier relationships and expand opportunity. Read about RGMA’s service offerings.