Empirical evidence strongly suggests that a disparity study can improve the economic growth and create contracting opportunities, increase business development, increase tax revenue and add to the jobs market. A disparity study will help determine whether any barriers exist, due to discriminatory practices that impede ready, willing and able M/WBEs from participating in state contracting opportunities.

The last State of Missouri (State) Disparity Study was commissioned in 1994 and completed in 1998. The State has not completed an updated Disparity Study since then, even though it is common practice for states to update their disparity studies every 3 to 5 years.

An updated Disparity Study would provide the basis for maintaining an M/WBE program to benefit minority-, and women-owned businesses, allowing them to participate in the economic vibrancy of the State’s contracting opportunities. The updated Disparity Study and promulgation of new policies would establish new M/WBE utilization goals and may allow the Office of Equal Opportunity (OEO) to advocate for more M/WBE inclusion in the procurement process in the State of Missouri.