Annapolis, MD (September 18, 2024) - Today, County Executive Steuart Pittman announced the launch of the Procurement Access and Vendor Equity (PAVE) Program, a new initiative designed to foster inclusion and eliminate barriers to participation in County contracts for Certified Business Enterprises (CBEs), including Minority Business Enterprises (MBEs).
“Today’s Executive Order ensures that our PAVE program will not only be accountable to data but also to the MBE businesses that have so much to offer our county,” said County Executive Pittman. “The new Coordinating Council will ensure that those businesses are being heard and that capacity is being built to ultimately grow the generational wealth in minority communities that have historically been denied.”
The PAVE Program is part of the County’s ongoing commitment to building a diverse, equitable economy. The initiative focuses on providing small, minority, women, and veteran-owned businesses better access to County contracting opportunities through training, resources, and outreach efforts. The program aims to increase CBE participation to 27% by 2027 and at least 30% by 2030. Additionally, the program seeks to address the common challenges faced by local businesses in navigating the procurement process and ensure that all CBEs have a fair chance to compete for County contracts.
The program officially launched today at an event with local businesses in attendance. The launch event began with the signing of Executive Order 65 by County Executive Pittman to formally establish the Certified Business Coordination Council (CBCC). Following the signing, a panel of leaders from the Anne Arundel Economic Development Corporation, Office of Equity and Human Rights, Office of Hispanic Latino and Multicultural Affairs, and the Office of Central Services participated in a moderated Q and A, and discussed the challenges CBEs face in securing government contracts and exploring strategies to overcome these barriers.
The CBCC will be tasked with overseeing the PAVE Program’s implementation and monitoring progress of the County’s efforts to increase CBE participation in the procurement process. The council’s mission is to eliminate barriers and enhance opportunities for CBEs by reviewing existing procurement laws and processes; and developing programs and policies to expand CBE procurement opportunities.
For more information about the PAVE Program, visit our website by clicking this link.
County Executive Pittman, accompanied by Office of Central Services Director Susan Herrold, Office of Equity and Human Rights Director Asha Smith, Office of Hispanic Latino and Multicultural Resources Director Alison Flores, and Anne Arundel Economic Development Corporation CEO Amy Gowan signing Executive Order 65.
Photo Credit: Tanner Halleran, Office of County Executive Pittman. The Office of County Executive Pittman grants members of the media the right to use these photos in publications and on social media.