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HomeMy WebLinkAboutOffice of Diversity & Inclusion 2025 Annual Report FinalCity of South Bend Indiana 2025 Annual Report Integrity Diversity Fidelity Compliance InclusionEquity Ex pan di ng A cce ss | Bu il di ng C apac it y | A dv a n c in g In cl u si o n. 2025 Executive Summary The work in 2025 was amplified through strategic partnerships with community-based organizations, financial institutions, educational partners, workforce intermediaries, and City departments. These collaborations supported a coordinated ecosystem approach to supplier readiness, workforce development, and small business capacity-building, ensuring services were aligned with community needs and market conditions. Looking ahead, ODI is establishing a long-term foundation for equitable participation through the launch of the 2026 Disparity Study, which will inform future benchmarks and goal-setting following its anticipated completion in 2027. In advance of the study’s findings, ODI’s 2026 priorities remain focused on expanding access through awareness, preparation, and application, including: Supporting MBE/WBE certification pathways Assisting businesses in achieving financial and bonding readiness Providing clear roadmaps to procurement participation Facilitating relationship-building with City buyers when appropriate Advancing workforce access through pre-apprenticeship and apprenticeship pipelines This report reflects ODI’s continued commitment to building pathways to participation and strengthening South Bend’s inclusive economic ecosystem through intentional strategy, partnership, and preparation. On behalf of the Office of Diversity, Compliance, and Inclusion, Bianca Jones Interim Officer of Diversity, Compliance, and Inclusion The Office of Diversity and Inclusion (ODI) served as a central access point for the City of South Bend’s inclusive procurement and contracting efforts, aligning small business support, supplier engagement, workforce exposure, and community partnership under a unified strategy focused on readiness and participation. In 2025, the City recorded $279.8 million in eligible spend, representing expenditures that can be influenced through supplier selection and engagement. Of this total, $26.0 million (9.3%) was awarded to minority- and woman-owned businesses across certified and non-certified categories, underscoring both the scale of opportunity and the importance of continued investment in access and readiness initiatives. Throughout the year, ODI implemented targeted strategies to reduce barriers that prevent businesses and residents from fully engaging in the local economy. Through the Small Business Assistance Suite (SBAS), businesses received legal, financial, and operational support designed to strengthen readiness prior to certification, contracting, or capital access. The Supplier Access Summit expanded understanding of procurement processes, increased access to decision-makers, and clarified pathways into public contracting. Community engagement efforts, including the Community Conversation Event, further strengthened awareness of ODI services and reinforced the office’s role as an accessible entry point for residents, entrepreneurs, and partners. City of South Bend Indiana Mission & Vision Mission To expand equitable access to city opportunities by strengthening supplier participation, workforce pathways, and compliance practices. We support fair procurement, inclusive employment, and public-private partnerships that enable businesses, workers, and communities to participate meaningfully in South Bend’s economic growth. Vision A city where opportunity is accessible, systems are transparent, and economic growth is driven by broad participation to benefit residents, businesses, and neighborhoods. Values Integrity Fidelity Diversity Equity Compliance Inclusion Integrity We conduct our work with honesty, accountability, and respect for public trust in every policy, process, and partnership. Fidelity We remain committed to the City’s ordinances, legal frameworks, and stated goals, ensuring consistency and follow-through in how programs are designed and delivered. Diversity We recognize the value of varied perspectives, experiences, and backgrounds in strengthening decision-making, economic participation, and community outcomes. Compliance We uphold local, state, and federal requirements and promote responsible practices that ensure fairness, transparency, and accountability. Equity We focus on fair access to opportunities by identifying and addressing systemic barriers within city systems and economic pathways. Inclusion We foster environments where businesses, workers, and residents can participate meaningfully and feel welcomed, supported, and respected.City of South Bend Indiana City of South Bend Indiana Inclusive Procurement & Contracting Board Murray Miller, Board President AFL-CIO Appointee Wilbur Boggs, Board Vice President Mayoral Appointee Breanna Allen, Ed.D, Board Secretary Mayoral Appointee Michael H. Morris, Ph.D., Board Member Mayoral Appointee Bianca Jones, Board Member Interim Officer of Diversity, Compliance, & Inclusion Board Members Rachel Tomas-Morgan, Board Member Common Council Appointee Reasha Donaldson, Board Member Common Council Appointee Rosa Tomas, Board Member Community Investment Appointee Gemma Stanton, Board Member Public Works Appointee The IPC Board Currently has two vacancies from the following appointing bodies: (1) Chamber of Commerce (1) Common Council City of South Bend Indiana 2025 Annual Spend Analysis The 2025 Spend Analysis provides a clear view of how City funds are distributed and the extent to which those dollars reach minority- and woman-owned businesses. This section examines total City spending alongside expenditures with certified MBE and WBE firms, as well as non-certified minority- and woman- owned businesses that actively participate in City procurement. To ensure the analysis accurately reflects opportunities for participation, all expenditures are classified as either Eligible Spend or Non-Eligible Spend. Eligible Spend includes expenditures that can be influenced through procurement practices, outreach, and engagement efforts. Non-Eligible Spend consists of fixed, regulated, or pass-through costs that fall outside the City’s direct control. This classification establishes a transparent foundation for evaluating supplier participation, identifying opportunities for growth, and informing future strategies to expand access and strengthen inclusive procurement outcomes. 0 50,000,000 100,000,000 150,000,000 200,000,000 250,000,000 300,000,000 MBE Certified Spend WBE Certified Spend MWBE Certified Non-Certified Spend Non-M/W Spending 13,197,329 6,704,991 238,909 5,877,710 253,813,104 City of South Bend Indiana 2025 Annual Spend Analysis In 2025, the City of South Bend recorded $279,832,043 in Eligible Spend, representing expenditures that can be influenced through supplier selection and engagement. Of this total, $26,018,939 (9.3%) was awarded to minority- and woman-owned businesses inclusive of Tier 1 and Tier 2 across CMC-managed capital projects, and certified and non-certified categories. Within this amount, $13,197,329 (4.7%) was awarded to certified Minority-Owned Business Enterprises across Tier 1 and Tier 2 participation, $6,704,991 (2.4%) to certified Women-Owned Business Enterprises across Tier 1 and Tier 2 participation, $238,909 (0.1%) to firms certified as both minority- and woman- owned, and $5,877,710 (2.1%) to non-certified, self-identified minority- and woman-owned businesses. These figures illustrate the City’s ongoing progress toward equitable participation in public spending and highlight opportunities for continued growth in supplier inclusion. City of South Bend Indiana Capacity-Building Efforts Office of Diversity and Inclusion MBE/WBE Certification Workshop Provides guided support to businesses navigating the certificationprocess, from eligibility review through application submission. Small Business Assistance Suite (SBAS) Delivers tailored support for small businesses through establishing asolid back office foundation Community Outreach Events Expands awareness of City opportunities through direct engagement,information sharing, and connections to supplier access, certification,and workforce resources. Supplier Access SummitAnnual event highlighting progress in supplier participation andstrengthening connections across sectors. Features educationalsessions, awards, a pitch competition, and networking to supportinclusive contracting and business growth In 2025, the Office of Diversity and Inclusion hosted four MWBE Certification Workshops to support minority- and woman-owned businesses pursuing certification and increased participation in City contracting. While interest was strong, an initial eligibility and documentation review showed that many registrants were not yet prepared to meet certification requirements. The workshops provided hands-on technical assistance focused on application navigation, documentation readiness, and compliance education, helping businesses assess readiness, close gaps, and pursue certification when eligible. These workshops served both as a pathway to certification and an early intervention tool, connecting businesses to resources that support long-term procurement readiness. City of South Bend Indiana MB E/WB E Ce rti fi c a t ion W ork s h op “This workshop gave me the push I needed to apply and saved me time and frustration navigating the process.” Naxos Neighbors “The workshop helped me take action and see the opportunities that are out there.” Cinco5 “This program helped me become certified and scale my business.” TT&T Creations “I had started the process before, but this class got me across the finish line.” Chips & Doodles 2025 Workshop Snapshot 4 workshops hosted 107 unique businesses registered 15 businesses achieved certification following participation 77 $60.6K 413.75 74% Businesses Served Invested in Direct Support Coaching Hours Provided Completion Rate City of South Bend Indiana S mall Busi n es s As s is t a nce Sui t e 2025 Program Impact Types of Support Provided Legal Structure & compliance Bookkeeping & financial organization Tax preparation support Coaching & advisory services Businesses Served Diverse industries: Services, Transportation, Retail, Beauty, Health, Food Services, Childcare, Construction, Entertainment, Non- Profit Primarily small, early stage, and growth stage businesses. High concentration of women-owned and Black-owned firms.74% completion - 57 businesses finished, 6 in progress, 14 inactive City of South Bend Indiana S mall Busi n es s As s is t a nce Sui t e 2025 Program Outcomes & Insights SBAS serves as the City’s front-end business readiness program, addressing foundational gaps before businesses pursue certification, capital, or contracting opportunities. What the data shows: Demand for legal and bookkeeping support remains the primary barrier to small business readiness, validating SBAS as a critical early intervention. Key Outcomes Improved legal and operational readiness Reduced financial disorganization and risk Clearer growth and compliance pathways High Concentrations of women-owned and Black- Owned firms Received SBAS coaching and bookkeeping support. Achieved MBE certification, opened a storefront in the Emporium Building, and is now a wine vendor for the Morris Performing Arts Center. Kamika & Tavarus PerryPerry Vines Through SBAS, Shalonna formed her LLC, developed financial projections, secured funding, and transitioned from employee to salon owner. She now operates Suites on Summit Place in her own revitalized building. Shalonda Diggins Suites on Summit Place Through SBAS coaching and certification support, Mia More Oils formalized its business structure, achieved MWBE certification, and expanded into multi- platform online sales with local media recognition. Mia Diggins Mia More Oils Access in Action: From Readiness to Results 77 businesses served 74% completion rate 57 businesses completed services Outcomes Increases awareness of ODI’s role, services, and programs Provided direct access to SBAS information and resources Connected attendees with IMPower staff and SBAS business coaches Allowed businesses to ask questions and explore readiness support Reinforced ODI’s presence as an accessible and responsive office City of South Bend Indiana C o m mun it y Co nv e r sa ti o n Ev e nt Event Snapshot 50+ community members registered Free, open access event designed to reduce barriers to participation. Registrants included: Residents Small business owners Nonprofit and community leaders Entrepreneurial support partners The Community Conversation Event served as a front- door entry point, strengthening trust and ensuring community members understand how to access ODI programs, including the Small Business Assistance Suite, MBE WBE Certification Workshops, and Supplier Access initiatives, supporting deeper participation. Why This Matters: Program Access in Action: IMPower Center team participated to present the SBAS Attendees were able to learn about SBAS services and meet coaches. Attendees learned how ODI supports business engagement in City procurement Attendees learned how to join the Certification workshop Real-time feedback from attendees on future programming needs. Su p p li e r Acc e s s Sum m it 2025 Participation & Demand Snapshot 37 small business registered to attend. Majority of business participants were: Solo Entrpreneurs or businesses with 1-5 employees Black- and Latino-owned businesses Ecosystem Participants: City of South Bend departments Prime contractors Entrepreneurial Support Organizations Private and nonprofit partners Business represented multiple industries, including: Professional Services Food & Beverage/Hospitality Construction Health & Mental Health Marketing & Communications Beauty, Entertainment, & Nonprofit sectors Clear, sustained demand for supplier development and access programming. Strong representation of small and early-stage businesses. Cross-sector interest from prime contractors, city departments, & partners. The Supplier Access Summit is a scalable ecosystem strategy that converts education, access, and partnerships into measurable outcomes for small businesses. Su p p li e r Acc e s s Sum m it 2025 Sessions Held & Outcomes 100% Valued for direct access to decision-makers and hands-on procurement guidance. 100% reported improved understanding of financial access pathways. 100% of respondents reported the Summit as beneficial and indicated willingness to engage again. Participants noted increased clarity around supplier readiness and contracting opportunities Attendees indicated plans to take immediate next steps toward certification, bidding, or financing. Procurement & Contracting Financial Access & Pitch Competition Marketing & Certification Supplier Access Roundtables & Awards Outcomes Award Winners $2,000 Access Seed Grant Pitch Competition Winner Indiana’s Elite Cleaning, LLC Emerging Excellence Award Alejandro Saucedo Community Partnership Caylie Peet, UND Inclusive Contracting Slatile Roofing & Sheet Metal INC Entrepreneurial Leadership Michael Morris, SBEAP Engagement 15 partner exhibitors 14 facilitators and panelists delivered specialized expertise. 6 hours of structured education. 2 hours of dedicated networking with exhibitors and partners. The Summit translated learning and access into direct financial support for a local business The Summit leveraged partner expertise and time to maximize participant impact. City of South Bend Indiana Com m uni t y Partn e r shi p s Through strategic partnerships, the Office of Diversity and Inclusion expanded its impact in 2025 by aligning youth engagement, workforce exposure, and small business readiness into a coordinated community ecosystem. Partners supported ODI initiatives through program delivery, workforce exposure, convenings, financial education, procurement engagement, and community outreach. IMPower Center INC. Latin Chamber of Commerce South Bend Entrepreneurial Adversity Program (SBEAP) St. Joseph County Public Library Intercultural Relationship Institute’s Thought Leadership Conference Indiana Black Expo Northern Indiana Minority Business Association (NIMBA) University of Notre Dame Bridging Business Team Elevate Youth Mentoring INC. South Bend Elkhart Regional Partnership Goodwill Industries of Michiana Lake City Bank CDFI Friendly South Bend Intend Indiana Sharp Wilkinson Great Lakes Women’s Business Enterprise National Council Partners City of South Bend Indiana L o o kin g Ahead - 2 0 26 Str at eg ic Pri o r ities Strategic Foundation A data-driven foundation for inclusive procurement and access Why This Matters Launching the 2026 Disparity Study Follows the City’s last completed study conducted in 2019–2020 Examines availability, utilization, and barriers for MBE/WBE firms Establishes legally defensible benchmarks for future goal-setting A disparity study evaluates whether minority- and women-owned businesses have equitable access to public contracting opportunities. Findings help cities establish fair, data-supported goals and design legally compliant programs that expand access. 2026 Program Focus: Access & Readiness While the 2026 Disparity Study will establish future benchmarks and goal-setting, the Office of Diversity and Inclusion’s current focus is on expanding access through awareness, preparation, and engagement. Supporting MBE/WBE certification pathways Assisting businesses in achieving financial and bonding readiness Providing clear roadmaps to procurement participation Facilitating relationship-building with City buyers when appropriate Advancing workforce access through pre-apprenticeship and apprenticeship pipelines Hosting annual Supplier Access Summit to support education and connection in our small business ecosystem. City of South Bend Indiana Ou r C o mmi tm e n t Mov ing Forward The work of 2025 demonstrates that access does not happen by chance. It requires structure, accountability, and sustained collaboration. Throughout the year, the Office of Diversity and Inclusion focused on strengthening the systems that support participation in South Bend’s economy, ensuring that businesses and residents are better positioned to engage with opportunity. The progress reflected in this report is the result of intentional partnerships and shared responsibility. When community organizations, financial institutions, educational partners, and City departments align around common goals, the impact extends beyond individual programs and into long-term economic resilience. As we move into 2026, our charge is not simply to expand programs, but to strengthen pathways. By deepening awareness, preparation, and connection, we continue building a more accessible and competitive local economy for all who seek to participate in it.