18th Annual Diversity in Contracting
Awards Ceremony
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On Tuesday evening, December 12, the Small and Minority Business Resources Department (SMBR) hosted its 2023 Diversity in Contracting Awards Ceremony.
The 18th annual event recognizes the vital work of certified firms and individuals whose businesses are certified through the City's Minority and Women-owned Business Procurement Program.
Nominations for the awards opened in late summer, providing certified businesses of all sizes and types the opportunity to apply. Award categories included Minority Businesses of the Year, Prime Contractor of the Year, Prime Consultant of the Year, Advocate of the Year, and Department Advocate of
the Year.
During the ceremony, SMBR also recognized the work of stakeholders who participated in the Inclusive Procurement Working Group, the 2023 BizAid Academy Cohort, and summer internship program participants.
City of Austin Chief of Staff, Susana Carbajal, served as the keynote speaker for the ceremony. Her speech spoke about the benefits of small business ownership and certified firms to communities and families and the positive impact they have on Austin's economy.
The list of winning certified firms is as follows:
African American Certified Business of the Year
Avery's Lawncare and Landscaping
Asian/Native American Certified Business of the Year
Lisa Kang Interiors
Hispanic Certified Business of the Year
Altura Solutions
Women Certified Business of the Year
KLP Construction Supply
Consultant of the Year
MWM Design Group
Contractor of the Year
Austin Contractors
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SMBR is thrilled to announce a series of empowering workshops. These monthly workshops aim to provide education, training, and support to certified Minority and Women-owned firms, equipping them with the tools and resources needed to thrive in Austin's dynamic economy.
The workshops are an outcome of the 2022 City of Austin Disparity Study and feedback from our MBE/WBE community via SMBR's annual supportive services survey. The topics have been meticulously influenced by your feedback, ensuring that the content is tailored to address specific needs and provide tangible tools for success.
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January Workshop: City of Austin Resources
Date and Time: January 23, 2024, 5:30-6:30 p.m.
Focus:
Explore the wealth of technical assistance available to propel your business forward. Learn how government and non-profit resources such as the Austin Library, Economic Development Department, Minority Trade Associations, local Chambers, and more can be leveraged for your business's growth.
Speakers:
- Danny Brewer, Economic Development Department
- Catherine Sak, SMBR
- Staff, Austin Public Library (to be determined)
March Workshop: Accessing Funding
Date and Time: March 5, 2024, 5:30-6:30 pm
Focus: Delve into various funding resources, including programs from the Small Business Administration, Community Development Financial Institutions, and traditional banks.
Speakers:
- Heather Cicirello, First United Bank
- Brian Marshall, BCL of Texas
- Cindy Solano, US Small Business Administration
April Workshop: Marketing and Promotions for Construction
and Professional Service Firms
Date and Time: April 16, 2024, 5:30-6:30 p.m.
Focus: Tailored insights on marketing and promotions for construction and professional service firms.
Speaker Information: To be announced.
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Registration for this opportunity is now open! Don't miss your chance to gain valuable insights and propel your business forward. Secure your spot, by registering for the workshops now via the button below. Space is limited, so we encourage you to register early to guarantee your participation. |
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A rectangular graphic with the phrase "We all Belong" prominently displayed at the top. We All Belong is a new anti-hate campaign powered by AUstin Against Hate that encourages community togetherness. |
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In a city as diverse and dynamic as Austin, the strength of community lies in our togetherness. As part of its ongoing commitment to fostering an environment of inclusivity and safety, the City of Austin has introduced the "We All Belong" campaign. This initiative is a call to action that encourages our community to unite to create a city where diversity thrives and hate has no place.
The We All Belong Campaign: A Beacon of Unity
The "We All Belong" campaign, powered by Austin Against Hate, embodies the city's dedication to promoting diversity and denouncing hate crimes. It serves as a potent reminder that, in Austin, every business and individual, regardless of background or identity, plays a crucial role in shaping our shared narrative.
Empowering the Community: Reporting Hate Crimes
One of the cornerstones of the campaign is the Hate Crime Reporting Tool, a resource designed to empower our community to report hate crimes promptly and efficiently. We understand the sensitivity surrounding this topic, and we approach it with respect and empathy. Reporting hate crimes is not only an act of self-preservation but a demonstration of our collective commitment to building a safer Austin for everyone.
How to Engage: Taking a Stand Against Hate
As valued members of Austin's minority and women-owned business community, your voice holds immense power. We urge you to actively engage with the "We All Belong" campaign and utilize the Hate Crime Reporting Tool available online at austintexas.gov/againsthate. Your reports contribute to a safer city and send a powerful message that hate has no place in our vibrant community.
United for a Better Austin
We recognize the challenges posed by hate crimes, and we stand with you in confronting these issues head-on. Together, let's make Austin a city where everyone feels valued, protected, and empowered to thrive. Join us in the We All Belong campaign and be a part of the collective effort to shape a more inclusive and united Austin.
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The updated administrative rules incorporate revisions to the (MBE/WBE) Procurement Program Ordinance. |
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SMBR is pleased to announce significant updates to the administrative rules governing the Minority and Women-Owned Business Procurement Program.
These changes come as a result of the formal adoption of revisions to the MBE/WBE Procurement Program Ordinance No. 20230720-113, by the Austin City Council on July 20, 2023. The updated ordinance is now easily accessible to the public on the City Clerk's website, providing stakeholders with a comprehensive understanding of the changes.
Looking ahead to early 2024, SMBR is set to embark on a comprehensive review and adjustment process for all associated forms and documents. This initiative aims to ensure a seamless alignment with the recently revised ordinance and the corresponding administrative rules, enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of the program.
For any inquiries or clarifications regarding these updates, stakeholders are encouraged to contact Patricia Bourenane, business process consultant for SMBR at 512-974-7736 or via email patricia.bourenane@austintexas.gov.
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Tuesday, January 23, 2023, Time: 5:30 - 6:30 p.m.
Explore the wealth of technical assistance available to propel your business forward. Learn how government and nonprofit resources such as the Austin Library, Economic Development Department, Minority Trade Associations, local Chambers, and more can be leveraged for your business's growth.
Wednesday, January 24, 2024 - 10:00 a.m. to Noon
Training opportunities have expanded to all City of Austin vendors! Learn how to navigate the requirements of doing business with the City while keeping informed of new opportunities.
Deadline - January 5, 2024
The Green Workforce Accelerator (GWA) will help organizations and/or social impact companies build new or significantly expand existing programs/lines of work that create good green jobs and/or training for green jobs, with a focus on creating equitable access and sustainable career pathways.
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Type:
Request for Qualifications
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Summary:
Design services for the West Garage as part of a CMAR Delivery.
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Subcontracting Goals:
African American 1.49% Hispanic American 3.67%
Native/Asian 2.83%
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Type:
Request for Qualifications
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Summary:
Inspection of Capital Improvement Projects
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Subcontracting Goals:
African American 1.96% Hispanic American 5.08% Native/Asian 3.46%
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This list of partner organizations and resources provides certified firms with access to workshops, classes, and instruction to help increase your chances
๏ปฟof doing business with the City of Austin.
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ADA Policy
The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request - including translation and interpretation services. For assistance, please contact the Small and Minority Business Resources Department at (512) 974-7600 or Relay Texas 7-1-1. The City receives and accepts Video Relay Service (VRS) calls from people who are Deaf or hard-of-hearing through Relay Texas 7-1-1
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