Memphis-Shelby County Airport Authority (MSCAA) has released its first annual Business Diversity Development report. According to the report, Disadvantaged, Minority and Women Business Enterprises (D/M/WBEs) were awarded 27 percent of the $46 million total spent in the areas of construction, professional services and goods & services contracts. Of the 27 percent spent with D/M/WBEs, 95 percent of the 27 percent spend was awarded to local businesses.
In addition, MSCAA spent 60 percent of its total $46 million with local businesses in the Memphis Metro Statistical Area, highlighting the airport’s intent to continue as one of the region’s most critical economic growth engines. The report also lists areas identified for potential growth for D/M/WBEs, including pavement joint resealing, fuel management, professional services, legal services, and financial management.
Other initiatives detailed in the report include last year’s launch of B2GNow, a new online portal that helps to streamline reporting requirements. The portal empowers vendors to manage their own records and submit contract payment details online.
Future plans and goals were also identified, including:
- A new online process to be launched in January that will decrease certification times.
- Creating a mentoring program for MSCAA’s joint pavement sealing contract
- Creating a shelter market program to boost the amount of direct spending
“MSCAA is proud of our Business Diversity Development department’s accomplishments in leading the airport’s minority participation efforts,” said Scott Brockman, President and Chief Executive Officer of MSCAA. “This reports highlights these accomplishments, but also emphasizes our commitment and determination to continual improvement and growth in our diversity efforts.”
