Procurement staff says MWBE participation rose to 17.7% in six‑month snapshot

Procurement staff told the Finance Committee the district met and exceeded its minority and women‑owned business enterprise participation goals in the second half of FY24. The district's target for certified MWBEs is 10%; staff reported combined certified and noncertified participation of 17.7 percent for the Jan. 1–June 30 reporting window.

Staff said the figure reflects a mix of certified firms and noncertified local businesses that still qualify for inclusion in outreach efforts. They described steps taken to increase participation, including direct notifications of solicitations to community groups, meetings with the local Black Chamber of Commerce and Beaufort Chamber, and targeted outreach to Hispanic business associations. Staff also noted geographic challenges — relatively few certified firms located in Beaufort, Jasper and Hampton counties — and the cost and administrative burden small firms face to pursue certification.

Board members asked what the board or operations could do to help increase certified participation; procurement staff encouraged suggestions and noted ongoing coordination with local business organizations and direct distribution of solicitations to community partners. Committee members discussed partnering with local associations and raising awareness among small businesses about certification resources.