Overview
BBC conducted a disparity study for the City of Boston related to its implementation of the Small Local Business Enterprise (SLBE) Program to help ensure that small businesses as well as minority- and woman-owned businesses have an equal opportunity to participate in City contracts and procurements. We assessed disparities between the participation and availability of minority- and woman-owned businesses for City contracts and procurements and collected extensive qualitative information about local marketplace conditions for businesses located in the Boston area.
Community engagement
Disparity studies
Legal analysis
Policy analysis
Program development
Qualitative research
Quantitative research
Outcomes
Disparity analysis: BBC observed substantial disparities between the participation and availability of minority- and woman-owned businesses for City contracts and procurements. We also observed various barriers in human capital, financial capital, business ownership, and business success for minorities, women, and minority- and woman-owned businesses in the Boston area.
Program development: We are working with the City to redesign the SLBE Program and develop a comprehensive program manual. Based substantially on disparity study results, we are providing program development services related to the City’s procurement practices, outreach efforts, and reporting requirements to help the organization further encourage the participation of minority- and woman-owned businesses in its contracts and procurements.
Race and gender-conscious measures: BBC is currently helping the City implement race- and gender-conscious measures for the first time in more than 25 years. We are working closely with City leaders and staff to develop a detailed process for setting minority- and woman-owned business goals on individual contracts it awards and monitoring compliance with those goals.