A recent disparity study commissioned by the City of Vancouver has revealed significant gaps in contract awards to minority- and women-owned businesses (M/WBEs). 

Conducted by Keen Independent Research, the study examined city contracts between 2015 and 2022 and found that only 9% of contract dollars went to M/WBEs, despite 24% of such businesses being qualified and interested in city contracts.

The study brought to notice major barriers faced by minority business owners, including limited access to capital and discriminatory treatment during the contracting process. Some business owners reported experiencing stereotyping and being held to higher standards than their counterparts. 

One Native American woman, who owns a professional services firm, shared her frustration over financial hurdles: “The idea that I haven’t proven myself to be able to have financing is just mind-blowing to me when we like to put people of color on posters at banks and say, ‘look at how much we’re doing for our community.’”

To address these disparities, researchers recommend that Vancouver establish a program aimed at increasing opportunities for M/WBEs. 

Suggested measures include setting participation goals, strengthening outreach efforts, and implementing policies to encourage prime contractors to subcontract with disadvantaged firms. Council members also discussed the need for internal improvements, with Councilor Diana Perez noting, “We also need to look at our own systems and see if there’s some improvement needed there.”

The study’s findings may serve as the foundation for future policy changes that will ensure a more equitable distribution of city contracts.