The City of Mesa is stepping up to the plate in an effort to bolster small businesses facing historical and systemic barriers. In a recent announcement, Mesa has set a proposed participation goal of 4.8% for Disadvantaged Business Enterprises (DBEs) in FAA-funded projects over the next two years. This move aims to level the playing field, ensuring that minority and women-owned businesses get a fair crack at lucrative federal contracts.
Open communication is key to the program's success, and the city is not just talking the talk. To start to comprehensively gather input, a teleconference is scheduled for March 11, from 1:00-1:30 MST. Stakeholders are invited to dial in at 1-937-240-2430, using the Access Code: 877565518#, to contribute to the discussion on the goal-setting process.
Details on this initiative appeared on the city’s official website on February 27th. The program covers federal fiscal years 2022 through 2024. The DBE program, structured by the Department of Transportation, is designed to correct the imbalances small businesses face in such competitive arenas.
Community members and interested participants can find more information on Mesa's commitment to diversity and inclusion in the marketplace by visiting the city's news release. Mesa's determination to openly strategize and successfully implement such a program sets an important precedent in ensuring equal opportunities for all enterprises in the region.
