Mayor Harrell signs new Executive Order to expand contracting equity with the City

Mayor signs new Executive Order to expand contracting equity with the City

11/1/202328:16

Mayor Bruce Harrell joins the Department of Finance and Administrative Services (FAS), Women-and Minority Owned business (WMBEs) leaders, and community partners to sign a new Executive Order (EO) that expands contracting equity and makes it easier for small businesses, particularly WMBEs, to work with the City of Seattle. The signing takes place at the 2023 Reverse Vendor Trade Show – an annual City-sponsored event attracting more than 600 businesses, including WMBEs, to network with and learn more about contracting and procurement opportunities with City departments and other public agencies.

Mayor Harrell’s new Executive Order aims to significantly impact City efforts to support women and BIPOC (Black, Indigenous and People of Color) owned firms that have been disproportionally underutilized in public contracting. Priorities of the Executive Order include expanding city contracting equity, particularly with BIPOC-owned firms, prioritizing resources and support for WMBEs, strengthening citywide accountability and transparency, and improving City policies and practices.

Speakers include:

Mayor Bruce Harrell, City of Seattle

Kiersten Grove, Acting Director, Finance and Administrative Services

Ollie Garrett, President and CEO of Tabor 100

Dr. Gillian Marshall, Principal of Dynamic and Innovative Research Solutions

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