The City of Vancouver engaged Keen Independent Research to analyze whether there is a level playing field for minority- and woman-owned businesses in the local marketplace. Keen Independent will also examine the City’s apprenticeship program and how this program affects small businesses and minority- and woman-owned businesses and their opportunities to participate in City projects. The disparity study will provide data about marketplace conditions and any disparities in City contracts. Study team member Customer Research International (CRI) will survey firms in the region to identify companies available for contracts with the City. The study team will also interview businesses and trade associations about conditions in the marketplace.

Study Team

Keen Independent Research is a national economic consulting firm specializing in disparity studies for local governments. Principals Annette Humm Keen and David Keen are leading this assignment. The study team includes local subconsultant Donaldson Consulting, Customer Research International and the national law firm Holland & Knight.