The City of Worcester is offering Diverse Business Certification Grants, providing $5,000 to Worcester-based businesses that achieve certification with the Massachusetts Supplier Diversity Office (SDO). This program aims to support and empower a diverse range of small businesses within the city. The initiative aligns with broader goals of economic development and fostering an inclusive business environment.
The primary beneficiaries of this program are small businesses in Worcester that are minority-owned (MBE), women-owned (WBE), veteran-owned (VBE), service-disabled veteran owned (SDVOBE), LGBTQ+-owned (LGBTBE), and disability-owned (DOBE). Businesses from Disproportionately Impacted Communities and Populations will receive prioritized consideration, ensuring that the grants reach those who need them most to achieve certifications and enhance their business opportunities.
The program's objectives focus on several key areas: increasing the total number of certified small businesses, particularly those owned by minorities and women; assisting these businesses with the registration process and overcoming common obstacles encountered when seeking government contracts; and ultimately positioning small businesses for greater contracting opportunities with governmental entities, institutions, and other businesses. The program prioritizes certifications as a strategic tool for growth and access.
Expected outcomes include a measurable increase in certified small businesses within Worcester, especially among minority and women entrepreneurs. The long-term impact aims to foster a more equitable and robust local economy by enabling these businesses to secure more government contracts and resources. This strategic approach is designed to create a more competitive and inclusive business landscape, ultimately contributing to the economic vitality and diversity of the city.
