Supplier Diversity
We work to ensure that minority- and women-owned small businesses can thrive and grow in Boston through access to City contracts.
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.
- Notice of Accommodations: Interpretation, translation, and disability accommodation services are available to you at no cost. If you need them, please contact us at jolivia.barros@boston.gov or 617-635-4511.
Upcoming events and workshops
Equity in City Contracts FY23 Report
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 ProcessLearn more about the IQC, which allows City staff to use a simplified process to procure higher values of supplies and...
The study identified challenges for minority- and woman-owned businesses in doing business with Boston.
Read the executive order establishing equitable procurement goals in support of minority and woman-owned businesses.
What we do
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!
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.
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.
Sheltered Market Program
We designate as available exclusively for minority- and women-owned businesses through the City's Sheltered Market Program.
