RFP No. 25-1403-1425, Consultant Services to Complete a Disparity Study

The City of Newport News, through its Economic Development Authority, is seeking proposals from qualified consultants to conduct a comprehensive disparity study focused on city procurement activities. The primary goal is to analyze whether there is a significant statistical disparity in the awarding of contracts to small, women-owned, minority-owned, and service-disabled veteran-owned (SWaM) businesses. The study aims to assess if these firms, which are qualified and willing to perform work, are being equitably considered for both prime contracting and subcontracting opportunities within the city's procurement processes. The contract is estimated to be valued between $250,000 and $1,000,000, with a deadline for responses set for August 25, 2024. Interested consultants are directed to respond electronically via the OpenGov platform, with Gary Sightler serving as the primary contact for inquiries. The solicitation, identified as RFP No. 25-1403-1425, was posted on July 23, 2024, and is open to qualified firms with expertise in conducting disparity studies, particularly within the NAICS code 561320. The project is part of the city's efforts to promote equitable procurement practices and ensure that SWaM businesses have fair access to city contracts, thereby supporting economic inclusion and diversity initiatives in Virginia.