The Minnesota Department of Administration recently released their Joint Availability and Disparity Study, which affects minority- or women-owned (M/WBE) and targeted group business enterprises. The Commissioner of Administration in Minnesota contracted with an outside agency to conduct the study, who examined barriers that resulted in disparity for targeted groups and recommended solutions to remedy the effects of any disparity identified.

The latest evaluation of M/WBE programs has shown that some targeted group business enterprises have changed status in the communities, and therefore, their eligibility for preferences or subcontracting has changed (see 1-page summary from the Department of Administration). The report identifies target groups in set business areas and includes tables to show disparity rates.

The report also details the history of disparity studies and introduction of M/WBE programs in Minnesota, as well as gives many nationwide examples of programs set in place to alleviate M/WBE discriminations and prevent future abuses.

To view the targeted group business eligibility table, please click here: TG Eligibility Table

To view the full study, please click: http://www.mmd.admin.state.mn.us/disparity/Revised2009AdminDisparityStudy.pdf

Cassie