Missouri is doing business with women and minorities
By Gov. Matt Blunt
For the St. Louis American
Last September I signed an executive order creating the Office of Supplier and Workforce Diversity and implementing programs to increase Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) and Women’s Business Enterprise (WBE) participation in state contracts. The new programs have helped remove barriers to MBE and WBE firms’ participation in state contracts and enhanced their ability to compete successfully in the Missouri marketplace.
The programs replaced a flawed initiative, created under previous administrations, that was suspended as a result of a legal challenge and subsequent injunction. They include active tools to recruit and encourage MBE and WBE participation in a way that both withstands constitutional scrutiny and more adequately addresses the compelling needs and obstacles of our state’s diverse businesses.
In Facilities, Management, Design and Construction the program has driven WBE participation to 9 percent, past its 5 percent goal, and has led to 7 percent participation in MBE. In Purchasing and Materials Management participation is also expected to exceed program goals in both categories.
The Office of Supplier and Workforce Diversity and participation programs support Missouri’s improving entrepreneurial climate and enhanced economic health. Last year, minority and women enterprises earned more than $100 million in state contracts. If we keep this pace, they will earn even more this year.
Their participation in the improved economic climate we have established has contributed to 18 months of steady job growth and economic improvement statewide. Smart fiscal management, lawsuit reform, significant and much-needed workers’ compensation reform, the Missouri Quality Jobs Act and a diligent interest in the state’s future have combined to provide a much-needed boost to Missouri’s economy.
Small business owners and entrepreneurs are building on the significant improvements we have made to create jobs, revive the state’s economy and move Missouri forward. With the creation of almost 50,000 jobs in the last 18 months, Missouri is now home to an historic 2.8 million jobs.
Diversity is paramount to this success. I believe that, whenever possible, we should pursue contracts that afford meaningful opportunities for diverse businesses and continue to work to eliminate existing disparities. Last month alone, the state awarded 17 new contracts with diversity components. My goal is to ensure state contracts mirror the rich diversity in our state and reflect the presence and capability of businesses owned by women and minorities in Missouri.