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Supplier Diversity

We work to ensure that minority - and women-owned small businesses can thrive and grow in Boston through access to City contracts.

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About the department

The Department of Supplier Diversity sits in the Economic Opportunity and Inclusion (EOI) Cabinet. It represents an integral part of the Mayor's mission to create a more economically equitable city. We offer opportunities for all communities to build wealth.

Learn more about the cabinet's vision and priorities for 2022.

Zoom Certification Hours

Join our weekly MWBE Zoom Certification Hours, every Wednesday from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.:

Certification Hours meeting

Supplier Diversity Program

The Supplier Diversity Program works to ensure that minority- and women-owned small businesses can thrive and grow in Boston through equitable access to City contracts.

We certify businesses as MBEs, WBEs, SBEs, and SLBEs. We also run programs that support diverse businesses in growing their capacity to bid for City and other government contracts. The program was established in 2021 following the completion of the City’s Disparity Study. 

Policy and Process

Policy and Process
We work to create policies that increase access to City contracts for minority-owned and woman-owned businesses.

We want to help those who have historically been underrepresented in City contracting.

Disparity Study

The study identified challenges for minority- and woman-owned businesses in doing business with Boston.
February 2021 executive order

Read the executive order establishing equitable procurement goals in support of minority and woman-owned businesses.

What we do

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Business Certification

Our mission is to create opportunities for businesses of all kinds in Boston. You can certify your business as:

  • a minority business enterprise (MBE)
  • a woman business enterprise (WBE)
  • a small business enterprise (SBE), and/or
  • a small local business enterprise (SLBE).  

Get started on your online application today!

APPLY NOW

Events and Technical Assistance

Our Pathways to City Contracting opportunity fairs help MWBEs learn about upcoming contracting opportunities with the City of Boston, network and engage with various City Departments, and connect with our resource partners.

Check out our upcoming events calendar to find the next Opportunity Fair.

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Contracting Opportunity Fund

Every year the City of Boston distributes over at $750,000 in grant funding through the Contracting Opportunity Fund. The fund helps certified Boston-based businesses build capacity to bid on City contracts. Grants of up to $15,000 are awarded annually in the spring. 

LEARN MORE

Sheltered Market Program

We designate as available exclusively for minority- and women-owned businesses through the City's Sheltered Market Program.

Learn more

Resources for Businesses and Buyers

Certified Business Directory
Guide to City Contracting

Upcoming events and workshops

There are no related events available at this time!

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