At Intermountain Health, our mission extends beyond patient care—we are an anchor institution committed to strengthening the long-term health and economic stability of the communities we serve. We play a vital role in advancing this mission by leveraging our purchasing power to support local businesses and drive inclusive economic growth.
The role of anchor institutions in community well-being
Anchor institutions are place-based, mission-driven organizations such as hospitals, universities, and government agencies that have a vested interest in the well-being of their communities. Intermountain Health joined the Healthcare Anchor Network (HAN) in December 2017, aligning with more than over 75 leading healthcare systems that use their economic influence to build more inclusive and vibrant local economies.
Intermountain’s anchor work focuses on volunteering, sustainability, place based investing, local impact hiring, and local sourcing. These initiatives are designed to strengthen community ties and promote economic growth within the region.
One example is our collaboration with Ethik, a Utah-based company. Ethik employs 26 Afghan refugee women to repurpose blue wrap from Intermountain operating rooms. This durable material, used to wrap sterile surgical instruments, is turned into handcrafted items like zipper pouches, keychain wristlets, and crossbody bags. By donating this material, medical waste is reduced while fueling Ethik’s growth. In addition, Intermountain sources products from Ethik, giving it as swag to our caregivers. This initiative empowers refugee women by providing stable jobs, financial independence, and a sense of dignity.
The power of local sourcing in an anchor Institution
Since 2020, Intermountain Health has worked toward investing 10% of its $2.1 billion annual addressable spend into local businesses. By the end of 2024, we had nearly reached this goal, hitting 9.87%. These investments generate long-term economic benefits, including job creation, homeownership, and improved access to essential services.
Research shows that for every $100 spent at a local business, $43 stays within the community, compared to just $13 when purchasing from non-local businesses. By choosing local suppliers, we amplify our impact—supporting not only Intermountain’s operations but also the economic stability of the communities we serve.
“Intermountain Health’s commitment to local sourcing isn’t just about where dollars are spent; it’s about who those dollars uplift,” said Shane Hughes, supplier and community relations director at Intermountain. “By creating stable jobs and helping local businesses, we help strengthen the economic foundation of the communities we serve and bring hope for a better future.”
If you have questions about Intermountain’s local, responsible sourcing anchor work, please contact Megan Curtis, business community relations manager.