An updated State of Missouri Disparity Study will compare the actual number of minority and women owned business enterprises (M/WBE) that exist in the state against the actual number of M/WBE’s being utilized in state government contracts. A disparity exists when there is underutilization of available M/WBEs.

The last State of Missouri (State) Disparity Study was commissioned in 1994 and completed in 1996. At this time, there is a need for an updated study.

Who will conduct the Disparity Study?

An independent, unbiased contractor will be identified by the State to conduct and perform the study.

Why was the Public-Private Partnership Initiative (3PI) created?

Due to budget circumstances, the Office of Administration (OA) proposed the creation of a public-private partnership as an alternative to funding the Disparity Study.

During the 96th Missouri General Assembly, a donation fund was established within the OA Office of Equal Opportunity operating budget, which would allow OA to raise funds through a public-private partnership initiative (3PI) to support a State Disparity Study.

Support from public and private entities will allow the State of Missouri to complete an updated State Disparity Study that measures the level of M/WBE utilization and assess the need to continue an M/WBE program.

The 3PI support of a State Disparity Study is a uniquely innovative concept, particularly with the private sector investing into public-policy programs.

The 3PI was created in September 2011 to solicit various public and private entities for partnering in support of the initiative of which the main objective is “Growing Missouri Businesses through Diversity.

To learn more about the Disparity Study and the 3PI visit our FAQs page.