Disparity Study Update

The City of Cincinnati, through the Department of Economic Inclusion and Procurement, is soliciting proposals for a Consultant to design and conduct a Disparity Study. The primary objective is to determine if statistically significant disparities exist between the actual utilization of minority-owned and women-owned business enterprises and their availability within the City's market area. The study will analyze contracting data for supplies, services, construction, and professional services over a five-year period from July 1, 2021, through June 30, 2026. Key deliverables include a final report featuring a Disparity Index, a detailed methodology analysis of statistical models used, and a review of procurement practices for various contract value tiers. The project must be conducted in accordance with Cincinnati Municipal Code Chapter 321 and City Manager Administrative Regulation 23. Proposals are due by December 15, 2026, and must be submitted exclusively through the Bonfire portal. Evaluation is based on a point system focusing on technical approach and methodology, data collection, cost and budget, qualifications of key personnel, and the project management plan. A critical compliance requirement is the commitment to a Subcontractor Utilization Plan with minimum goals of 8% for MBEs and 4% for WBEs of the total proposed price. Required submission documents include a letter of proposal, company credentials, five government references from the last five years, an itemized budget, and specific attachments regarding corporate information, accuracy affidavits, and equal employment opportunity compliance. Payments are contingent upon the performance of contractual obligations and must be supported by detailed documentation.