At the intersection of strategy, innovation, and purpose lies Humbition Consulting, a boutique management consulting firm led by Vanessa and Steven Sun. With a name rooted in “humble ambition,” Humbition brings together grit, collaboration, and a client-centric approach to produce tangible impact.
Vanessa, Steven, and their team believe strongly in the power of collaboration and mutual support, such as among Minority Business Enterprises (MBEs). For Humbition, success is amplified through partnerships with fellow MBEs – sharing knowledge, building each other up, and expanding what’s possible together.
The NWMMSDC had the chance to interview Vanessa Sun, Managing Partner of Humbition Consulting, to talk about the firm’s journey, the values that guide their work, and why uplifting other MBEs is not only impactful, but essential:
What does your business do?
We are a management consulting firm specializing in four core competencies.
Planning and Delivery
- Project and Program Management, Technical/Non-Technical
- Product Management
- New Process Development and Portfolio Management
Organizational Change and Strategy
- Change Management
- Business Strategy Planning and Execution
Business Intelligence
- Data Analysis and Visualization
Financial Planning & Insights
- Accounting Advisory and Execution Support
- Financial Planning and Analysis
Why did you decide to create this business? What inspired/motivated you?
Humbition ‘Humble Ambition’ means a great deal to us. Our humble beginnings taught us to always persevere while reminding us to be thoughtful, critical thinkers who put in the extra effort (grit) in all that we do. Our Western education taught us to make a difference, take risks, innovate and leave behind something better than how we found it. Humbition merged those ideals together which fit perfectly with our own personal beliefs and principles.
After two decades of corporate and consulting tenure supporting various strategic and leadership roles, we felt our impact fell short as the mutual value systems weren’t aligned. We decided to pursue our entrepreneurial aspiration by creating Humbition Consulting to serve leaders with similar values that support our great community and humanity.
Our motivation stems from a deep commitment to helping businesses thrive in an ever-changing landscape. We are driven by the success stories of our clients and the positive changes we can help bring about in their operations. Seeing our clients achieve their goals and knowing we played a part in their success is incredibly rewarding and fuels our passion for what we do.
Talk to me about the journey of your business. How did you start off and where are you now?
Our journey began six years ago with a small but passionate team determined to make a mark in the management consulting industry. The early days were challenging, filled with long hours and a steep learning curve.
What do you love about your business?
One of the things we love most about our business is the opportunity to make a tangible impact on our clients’ success. Every project is a new challenge that allows us to innovate and find creative solutions. The collaborative spirit within our team and the continuous learning environment makes our work incredibly fulfilling. Seeing our clients achieve their goals and knowing we played a part in their success is immensely rewarding.
What does it mean to you to be a minority business owner?
Being a minority business owner is both a privilege and a responsibility. It means breaking barriers and setting an example for others in our community. It also involves advocating for diversity and inclusion within the industry. We take pride in our unique perspective and the diverse experiences we bring to the table, which enrich our approach to consulting and problem-solving.
What are some challenges you had to face with your business?
One of the significant challenges we faced was establishing credibility in a competitive market. As a new and minority-owned firm, we had to work harder to prove our expertise and reliability.
How did you overcome those challenges?
We overcame these challenges through relentless dedication and strategic planning. Building strong relationships with our clients and consistently delivering high-quality work helped us gain credibility. We also sought mentorship and support from industry veterans, which provided valuable insights and guidance. By focusing on our strengths and continuously improving our services, we were able to attract and retain clients. Additionally, we leveraged our unique perspective as a minority-owned business to differentiate ourselves in the market.
What do you wish for others and your customers to know about your business? What do you hope others and your customers understand about your business?
We want others and our customers to know that our business is built on a foundation of integrity, diversity, and client-centricity. We are deeply committed to understanding our clients’ unique needs and delivering tailored solutions that drive their success. We hope our customers understand that we view their success as our own and that we are dedicated to building long-term, mutually beneficial relationships. Our goal is to be a trusted partner who consistently adds value and helps navigate complex challenges.
In what ways has the NWMMSDC supported you?
The Northwest Mountain Minority Supplier Development Council (NWMMSDC) has been instrumental in our growth. They have provided us with invaluable networking opportunities and connected us with other minority business enterprises (MBEs). Their training programs and resources have helped us enhance our business practices and stay competitive. Additionally, their advocacy for minority-owned businesses has opened doors for us that might have otherwise remained closed.
In what ways has collaborating with other MBEs impacted your business?
Collaborating with other MBEs has had a profound impact on our business. It has allowed us to share knowledge, resources, and best practices, which has strengthened our capabilities. These collaborations have led to partnerships that have expanded our service offerings and market reach. Working with fellow MBEs has fostered a sense of community and mutual support, which has been incredibly empowering and motivating.
What advice would you give to other minority business owners?
My advice to other minority business owners is to embrace the power of networking and collaboration. Seek out connections with fellow MBEs and leverage the support systems available, such as those provided by organizations like the NWMMSDC. Building a strong network can open up new opportunities and provide valuable insights. Additionally, stay resilient and focused on your goals. Challenges are inevitable, but with perseverance and a clear vision, you can overcome them and achieve success.
Website: https://humbitionconsulting.com
To contact Humbition Consulting:
Vanessa Sun
206-992-7418
About the NWMMSDC
The Northwest Mountain MSDC, an affiliate of the National Minority Supplier Development Council (NMSDC), is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering minority-owned businesses by certifying, developing, and connecting Minority Business Enterprises (MBEs) with major corporations and public agencies.
Since 1978, the Council has been a driving force for advancing supplier programs and creating opportunities that enable minority-owned businesses to thrive. Serving the Pacific Northwest Mountain region – encompassing Alaska, Idaho, Montana, Oregon, Utah, Washington, and Wyoming – the NWMMSDC is committed to fostering meaningful business partnerships and driving economic growth.
For more information about the NWMMSDC and its programs, visit www.nwmmsdc.org.
To learn more about how certifying your minority-owned business can benefit you, click here.
If you would like to certify your minority-owned business as well, click here.