Storytelling isn’t just a tool for communication, it’s a strategy for influence.

In a powerful conversation with Kim Ayers of AARP, we explored how organizations are reimagining storytelling and data as twin forces to advance supplier diversity, demonstrate ROI, and build internal and external stakeholder buy-in.

What we uncovered is that this isn’t just about highlighting impact. It’s about making impact undeniable through both emotional connection and hard numbers.

 

From “Nice to Have” to “Smart Business”

When Kim first stepped into her supplier diversity role, it became clear: there was a disconnect between internal teams and the value of diverse suppliers. Without storytelling, supplier diversity was seen as a “nice to have,” not a strategic lever.

Now? It’s framed as risk mitigation, innovation sourcing, and a core procurement priority and that shift came through storytelling paired with data.

 

Smart Tactics to Tell Better Stories with Data

Kim and her team built an ecosystem to embed supplier diversity across the organization:

• Quarterly reports tied directly to business unit goals.
• Economic impact reports that sparked competition and champion engagement.
• Scorecards and intake forms to prequalify suppliers and get them business-ready.

Internal communications campaigns that connect the dots between everyday work (like the laptop on your desk) and the small, diverse businesses behind them.

 

Making It Real for Nonprofits

Nonprofits, take note: this isn’t just a corporate tactic. Donors and funders are asking for impact. And the key to showing impact isn’t more fluff, its clarity, consistency, and synthesis.

The scorecard method? Perfect for segmenting funders. The internal champions approach? Perfect for aligning with your development, finance, or programs team. Storytelling with data creates buy-in from every direction.

 

Data Shows Scale. Stories Show Significance.

• Data shows breadth: how many dollars spent, how many businesses engaged.
• Stories show depth: the entrepreneur who grew because of a contract, the supplier who reinvests in their community.

Together, they build momentum.

 

Where to Start If You Feel Stuck

If you don’t have a mountain of data, that’s okay. Start with:

1. A clear goal.
2. A repeatable framework.
3. One story + one data point.

Build from there. Scale from there. Stakeholders don’t need perfection, they need direction.

 

Final Thought

Want your supplier diversity program or nonprofit story to be seen, funded, and understood? Don’t just report outcomes show the journey. Use data to frame the reach. Use stories to prove the relevance. Together, they build trust, drive investment, and sustain momentum.

We help organizations do just that. If you’re ready to connect the dots between impact and investment, contact us to learn how our supplier diversity and nonprofit solutions can help drive long-term success.