Explanation
BACKGROUND: The Diversity Bridge Initiative provides direct programming or a link to the appropriate program for all women/minority business enterprises (W/MBEs) no matter what their business cycle status is - start-up to growth to mature. Our region is a diverse one, and its economic opportunities should be available to all of its diverse business owners. Many larger businesses and organizations in the Columbus region have embraced the philosophy of Diversity Bridge, are committed to contracting with W/MBEs, and would prefer that these contracts be with local businesses.
The Chamber in concert with its partners, serves as the centralized point of contact to assure successful implementation of the programs and activities of The Diversity Bridge
Initiative. It is believed, that with the Chamber serving in this role, it will encourage collaboration among the organizations/agencies that service minority businesses, thereby eliminating unnecessary redundancy and enhance service. Through the Diversity Bridge web portal, the Chamber desires to provide more jobs and build wealth in the W/MBE community by creating a more efficient and effective service delivery network; and build capacity within the minority business community.
This legislation authorizes the expenditure of $50,000.00 from the General Fund and authorizes the Director of the Department of Development to enter into an agreement with the Columbus Chamber for administrative costs associated with the services referenced above.
Emergency action is requested to allow the Diversity Bridge Initiative to continue uninterrupted.
FISCAL IMPACT: The $50,000.00 for the administrative costs will come from the 2010 General Fund.
Title
To authorize the Director of the Department of Development to enter into an agreement with the Columbus Chamber for administrative costs to continue the Diversity Bridge Initiative; to authorize the expenditure of $50,000.00 from the General Fund;...
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