Akron Launches Small Business Enterprise Program for City Contracts
What happened
Akron has launched a Small Business Enterprise (SBE) program to increase opportunities for small businesses to compete for city work. The city introduced the program after executive orders from the Trump administration caused the city to end its long-standing Women Business Enterprise and Minority Business Enterprise programs. Qualified small businesses can now compete for contracts exclusively designated for SBEs or for larger contracts that allocate a percentage of work to them. The city anticipates $1.19 million in spending for the first group of projects.
From ideastream.org
Why it matters
The city spends millions annually on construction, maintenance, professional services, supplies, and other goods and services. The SBE program aims to be more intentional about ensuring small businesses have a chance to secure this city business. The city also plans to examine upcoming contracts to see if they can be restructured to create additional opportunities for small businesses.
From ideastream.org
Who's involved
- AkronCity of Akron, the city government responsible for awarding contracts and overseeing the SBE program.
- Shammas MalikShammas Malik, the Mayor of Akron and chief executive of the city.
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The entities involved
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Akron
city and the county seat of Summit County, Ohio, United States