M/WBE and SWaM Programs

Minority/Women Business Enterprise Program

The City of Portsmouth City Council has adopted a resolution to provide Minority and Woman-Owned Business Enterprises (M/WBE) greater access to City contracting opportunities. The City is committed to addressing historical disparities in awarding local government contracts to M/WBEs. The M/WBE program includes specific guidance and clarification for the procurement of city goods and services and construction-related needs to improve business opportunities for minority and woman-owned business enterprises. 

Economic Growth

The City’s Purchasing Office is committed to promoting opportunities for M/WBEs by:

• Revising solicitation specifications to mandate the inclusion of M/WBEs as part of the submission criteria
• Serving as the direct customer link to create opportunities for the goods and services the city seeks to procure

I appreciate your interest in pursuing contracting opportunities with the City of Portsmouth.

Resources

Business assistance and resources for M/WBEs are available through the City of Portsmouth’s  Department of Economic Development. Information on available programs and supportive services can be found at the Department of Economic Development website at Business Resources | Portsmouth Economic Development (accessportsmouthva.com)

Additional resources and support are offered through the following partner organizations:

Virginia Department of Small Business & Supplier Diversity

Hampton Roads Small Business Development Center 

B-Force, Black Brand Black BRAND – | We are the solution

Any thoughts, ideas, and suggestions about activities/events you would like to engage in to promote the growth and opportunities for M/WBEs are welcome. Please email us with any input you have. With any information you have.

For more information on the different certification types, please go to the following link:   
 https://www.sbsd.virginia.gov/certification-division/