2022 City of Austin Disparity Study
The 2022 City of Austin Disparity Study by Colette Holt & Associates aimed to assess the city's engagement with Minority and Women-owned Business Enterprises (MBEs/WBEs). Analyzing contracts from fiscal years 2013-2018, the completed study revealed that MBEs accounted for 9.6% and WBEs for 6.8% of the city's contract utilization. This indicates a combined M/WBE engagement of 16.4%, contrasting with an 83.6% rate for non-M/WBEs, highlighting significant disparities. Key findings of the study confirmed that minority and women entrepreneurs continue to face systemic racial barriers, gender bias, and financial challenges. Recommendations for the city include adopting race-neutral measures, developing a procurement forecast, and implementing a mentor-protégé program, among others, to address these disparities and improve inclusivity in city contracting. As we move forward, the City of Austin remains committed to revisiting and refining strategies and best practices to ensure the MBE/WBE program not only meets but exceeds its goals. Our aim is to create a business landscape where every enterprise, regardless of its owner's race or gender, can thrive and contribute to Austin's vibrant economy.
Small and Minority Business Resources Department City of Austin
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