During a recent government meeting, officials highlighted the significant impact of a local contracting program, which has reportedly fostered the creation of several small businesses over the years. The program, designed to support minority business enterprises (MBEs), spans multiple projects over a five to six-year period, providing a more sustainable foundation for businesses compared to traditional one-off contracts.

Officials noted that the program has allocated over a billion dollars within the community, emphasizing that the majority of jobs created through these contracts are filled by local residents. This approach not only aids in establishing businesses but also strengthens the local economy by ensuring that funds circulate within the community.

The discussions underscored the importance of long-term projects in helping businesses gain stability and grow, contrasting with the challenges faced by MBEs that rely on single-project contracts. The meeting concluded with a strong affirmation of the program's positive influence on local entrepreneurship and employment.