Revised City of South Bend Disparity Study Report

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City of South Bend Disparity Study 2020 regarding upcoming opportunities, as well as facilitate "matchmaking" ses- sions between prime contractors and subcontractors. Another improvement would be an annual contracting forecast of larger con- tracts to permit vendors to plan their work and form teams. Further, as is the case with many governments, the study revealed that M/ WBEs are receiving few opportunities in several industry codes. We suggest that special outreach for larger projects be conducted to firms in those sectors so that they are aware of opportunities and can make connections with other vendors as subcontractors orjoint venture partners. Activities could include targeted emails about future contracts, matchmaking events focusing on those industries, and the identification of firms that are not currently certified, but might be eligible for inclusion, to encourage applications. Many business owners reported they did not know how to obtain "debrief- ings" with the City when their firm was not successful in receiving a contract award. A process should be disseminated, and bidders encouraged to meet with the City to develop their expertise in submitting bids or proposals and in doing business with the City. Further, potential vendors requested training in how to do business with South Bend. In addition to written materials, the City could hold in-person sessions and create training videos that provide information on all aspects of City con- tracting. 5. Consider Partnering with Other Agencies and Local Organizations to Provide Bonding, Financing and Technical Assistance Programs Both M/WBEs and majority -male owners supported services to assist M/WBEs to increase their skills and capabilities. Bonding and financing programs assist small firms by providing loans and issuing surety bonds to certified contractors, with low interest rates. The programs may also provide general banking ser- vices on favorable terms to applicant firms. In addition, technical assistance with critical business skills such as estimating, accounting, safety, marketing, legal compliance, etc., could be made available in conjunction with the existing efforts of South Bend area organizations such as chambers of commerce, pro- fessional associations, community-based organizations, etc. For example, the City should consider working with St. Mary's College's SPARK program. SPARK is a partnership of community education and business assistance programs designed to assist women in developing the necessary skills to launch and expand their own businesses. This particular initiative is designed to expand the entrepreneurial capacity of women by providing education, ongoing men- toring and business training encompassing financial accounting, management and planning, marketing and other business tools necessaryto run a successful 0 2020 Colette Holt & Associates, All Rights Reserved. 97