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King County Disparity Study
In 2023, King County commissioned Colette Holt & Associates to perform a disparity study to determine whether there is a disparity between the availability of Minority, Women, and Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (M/W/DBEs) and their utilization in its market area. You can access the study and additional information on this website, including the following links:
We extend our sincere thanks to all internal and external parties for being great partners. We look forward to doing even more to support certified small businesses and M/W/DBEs. Your contributions to the study were invaluable.
King County's pro-equity program achieving impressive results, nearly eliminating contracting disparities with minority- and women-owned businesses
King County has nearly eliminated contracting disparities with minority- and women-owned businesses, according to a study conducted by a nationally recognized consulting firm. This successful outcome follows Executive Dow Constantine's Pro-Equity Contracting Initiative and the county's sustained efforts to recruit and retain historically disadvantaged firms as government contractors.
Study Purpose
A disparity study determines whether a government entity, either in the past or currently, engages in exclusionary practices in the solicitation and award of contracts to M/W/DBEs and whether current initiatives remain legally defensible and administratively successful.
Study Scope
The disparity study involved gathering evidence to determine whether M/W/DBEs have equal opportunities on County projects. This included analyzing both quantitative and qualitative evidence. The study assessed the county's spending with M/W/DBEs and their availability as a percentage of all firms in the county's market area and relevant industries. Additionally, the study provided recommendations for future programs and policies.
Study Results
Across six of the seven categories (Black, Hispanic, Asian, White Women, Minority Women-Owned Businesses, and Non-Minority Owned Businesses), the county's utilization of M/W/DBEs has nearly equaled or exceeded their availability in the county's market area for construction, architecture, engineering, and professional services.
The full report includes a summary of the disparity study results in the Executive Summary section.
Acknowledgements
King County would like to express our sincere gratitude to everyone who contributed to the study for their outstanding partnership. Your insights and efforts have been instrumental in our progress.
If you have questions or comments regarding the study, please email opportunity@kingcounty.gov.
In April 2021, King County Executive Dow Constantine signs Executive Order CON-7-28-EO for Pro-Equity Contracting.
