Our Business Partners Program seeks to promote efficiency and profitability for Major League Baseball and its Clubs while extending Baseball's ability to contribute to the economic growth, strength and well-being of communities where we work, live and play our sport.
Interested in doing business with baseball?
The following is a list of useful information every business owner should know before developing a partnership with Major League Baseball.
1. Major League Baseball and its Clubs develop partnerships with a wide variety of suppliers and vendors. An individual vendor's ability to satisfy various objectives is key to developing a business relationship. These objectives typically include price, quality, service and the vendor's willingness and ability to support Major League Baseball's strategic objectives. These factors, along with the need for the product/service offered, will determine the nature of the business relationship.
2. Know the game of Baseball. Make it a habit to regularly check the baseball news and press release sections on MLB.com. Knowing the current issues or events in baseball can give your business a distinct advantage when proposing the use of your services.
3. Consider certifying your business with organizations such as the Small Business Administration (SBA), SBA Veteran-Owned Business Resource (VetCert), National Minority Supplier Development Council (NMSDC), Women's Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC) and the National Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce (NGLCC) for resources and assistance.
4. Be specific. Know the scope of your business and how it can service baseball. Suggesting that your business can service all 30 Clubs may not be practical. Be prepared to know which teams and markets you can support.
5. Be realistic. Major League Baseball is very proud of its world class brand. However, our franchises are small to medium size businesses. The demand for our business is very competitive.
6. Know your competition. Be prepared to identify who your competition may be and why your company is the preferred choice.
