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Frequently Asked Questions
01
What is a Disparity Study?
By definition, disparity studies determine if inequities exist in public procurement and contracting that adversely affect disadvantaged businesses/minorities and/or women.
A disparity study helps ensure any race-or gender-based remedial programs will withstand scrutiny in a court of law. The primary goal of the study is to assess, quantify, and evaluate the prevalence, significance (degree and weight) and scope of discrimination in the marketplace, if any, against minority and women-owned business enterprises.
02
Why is the District Conducting a Disparity Study?
The District is conducting a disparity study to assess whether women and minority-owned businesses face any barriers as part of the District’s contracting processes.
For more information about the Disparity Study, visit the District’s website.
03
When will the Disparity Study be completed?
The Disparity Study began in May 2021 and will complete the study at the end of April 2022.
04
What types of contracts are being studied?
The study period for the disparity study will be contracts and procurements the District awarded from October 1, 2016 through September 30, 2020. The study will also examine other information related to:
Legal considerations surrounding the District’s implementation of the CBE program;
Marketplace conditions for women- and minority-owned businesses;
Contracting practices and assistance programs the District currently has in place; and
Potential program measures for the District to consider implementing to further encourage women- and minority-owned business participation.
05
What will the city do with the information from the Disparity Study?
Information from the study will help the District determine whether a disparity exists, assess its efforts to encourage women and minority owned businesses to bid on District contracts and help inform what, if any, improvements are needed to optimize the Districts contracting process.
06
Will the results of the Disparity Study be made public?
Yes.
07
How can I participate in the Disparity Study process?
The District needs your help to complete this historical study. It is important for the Washington D.C. black business community to get involved and stay involved during the course of the study.
Whether you’re a black-owned or black-led business, industry expert, community leader, or economic equality enthusiast, we need your participation in focus groups, interviews and surveys, and testimonies.
You may also make a gift contribution through our website. This is your frontline opportunity to let your voice be heard and make a lasting impact.
You may visit the District’s website for more helpful information.
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