Equity in Contracting
This program offers access to contracting and procurement opportunities, as well as guidance and technical assistance, to historically underutilized businesses interested in providing supplies, services, and public works support to the City of Tacoma.
Mission Statement
To create and sustain a competitive and fair business environment for contracting, procurement and consulting opportunities that include small businesses owned by minority, women, and socially and economically disadvantaged people.
As part of the City of Tacoma’s ongoing work to advance broader strategic goals relating to equity and accessibility, as well as economic growth, it has expanded its efforts to achieve equity in contracting and supporting minority and women-owned businesses. Learn more on the Equity in Contracting Vendors web page.
The Equity in Contracting Program offers access to contracting and procurement opportunities, as well as guidance and technical assistance, to historically underutilized businesses interested in providing supplies, services, and public works support to the City of Tacoma.
Commonly Needed Files
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The City is committed to ensuring fair and equitable access to contracting opportunities for all businesses, especially those owned by women, people of color, and other historically underutilized groups.
In 2018, the City conducted a comprehensive disparity study to examine barriers in public contracting across construction, architecture and engineering, goods, and services. The study found statistically significant underutilization of minority and women-owned businesses in these areas. It also concluded that the City’s Small Business Enterprise (SBE) Program had not effectively reduced these disparities or expanded access to contracting opportunities.
In response, the City launched the Equity in Contracting (EIC) Program, designed to address the findings of the 2018 study and improve outcomes for underutilized businesses.
As part of this effort, a construction industry stakeholder committee (Community Workforce Agreement (CWA) Task Force), made up of labor leaders, private contractors, minority and women-owned businesses, and residents from economically distressed communities, was convened to explore solutions. While the group did not support a formal community workforce agreement or priority hire ordinance, they recommended expanding support services for minority and women-owned businesses.
To continue this work, the City completed a new Disparity Study in 2024, which builds on the findings of the 2018 report and provides updated data and recommendations.
You can view information on the 2024 Disparity Study here: 2024 Disparity Study
For historical context, you can also review the 2018 Disparity Study Final Report here: 2018 Disparity Study Final Report
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Ongoing training and business management assistance is available to businesses. For certified businesses, the Equity in Contracting program helps to level the playing field when it comes to having an opportunity to secure public works and goods and services contracts.
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- If you have an Equity in Contracting (EIC) issue related to prompt pay, certification, retainage or fraud, you or someone on your behalf may file a complaint with the EIC Office by emailing our office at EICOffice@tacoma.gov. Please note: This email is subject to Public Disclosure.
- Once your email has been received, EIC Staff will follow up via email.
- Please Note: If your complaint is a Title VI Complaint, visit City of Tacoma Title VI Notice Webpage for more information on how to file a Title VI Complaint or send an email to the Title VI Coordinator at titlevi@tacoma.gov
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Malika Godo
Equity in Contracting Compliance Specialist
(253) 344-6632
mgodo@tacoma.govLinda Cerna
Business Engagement and Compliance Auditor
(253) 254-9627
lcerna@tacoma.gov