Disparity study finds MWBE underutilization in Prince William County; staff to design supplier‑diversity program

The Prince William County Office of Procurement Services presented findings from a county‑commissioned disparity study and outlined next steps at the Jan. 20 board meeting.

Director Shana Terry described outreach efforts — vendor expos, a vendor relations coordinator and workshops — and introduced the consultant, Vernetta Mitchell of MGT, who summarized the study’s methodology and results. MGT analyzed $722 million in county expenditures from fiscal years 2022–2024.

The study found overall MWBE (minority and women‑owned business) utilization of 17.25% of the contracts studied. MGT’s availability estimates across the county’s 21‑jurisdiction market area indicated overall MWBE availability of roughly 24%, and statistical analysis showed substantial disparities exist for MWBE firms overall (Asian American firms were an exception in some categories). The private‑sector analysis also showed minority and women owners earn less and form businesses at lower rates than non‑minority counterparts, controlling for standard variables.

Qualitative feedback from vendor surveys and focus groups identified barriers including limited communication and bid feedback, difficulty navigating procurement requirements, prime‑contractor practices that discourage MWBE participation, informal industry networks and challenges accessing capital.

MGT recommended improved subcontractor data collection, establishing a business inclusion/strategic supplier diversity program with a 5–7 year sunset, adopting aspirational (not project‑specific) goals, and publishing a procurement forecast so firms can prepare and partner. Procurement recommended implementing aspirational goals consistent with applicable Virginia law and said it will develop program details for the board’s consideration.

During board discussion supervisors commended outreach progress (noting vendor registration growth and expos), asked about data systems and potential staffing needs, and signaled functional support for staff to design a program. County staff said they will return with a program plan and any budget or staffing requests; staff estimated a roughly six‑month timeline to design the program and said they would not request new FY27 spending off‑cycle without board approval.