Raimondo takes steps to boost minority businesses

PROVIDENCE, R.I. - Gov. Gina M. Raimondo announced two new executive orders Thursday aimed to help the state's minority business community.

Raimondo said the orders would create a Diversity in Construction Working Group and a new council to advise the state's Office of Diversity Equity and Opportunity. She said one goal is to double by 2020 the rate of state contracts going to businesses owned by minorities, women and people with disabilities.

In fiscal 2014 and 2015, an estimated 4 percent of the state's procurement dollars were awarded to these groups. In fiscal 2016, this estimate rose to 6.3 percent. The goal announced Thursday aims to raise the utilization rate to 12 percent by 2020.

"We've made progress in opening doors for minority-owned and women-owned businesses, as well as businesses owned by people with certified disabilities, but it's not enough," Raimondo said. "We need a system that is fair across the board, and we need supports in place that further encourage activity in our diverse economy. Today, I'm setting a firm goal and making strides to ensure Rhode Island is leveling the playing field for those who want to conduct business in this state."

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