VIA Metropolitan Transit (VIA) seeks to level the playing field for minority- and woman-owned businesses in its contracting and procurement.
VIA engaged Keen Independent Research to examine participation of minority- and women-owned firms in its contracts as well as conditions in the local marketplace. Results will help VIA assess its current equity efforts and identify any new measures needed to encourage participation of diverse businesses in its contracts.
San Marcos-based study team member Customer Research International (CRI) will survey firms in the region by phone to identify companies available for VIA contracts and subcontracts. Keen Independent Research will then compare utilization and availability of minority- and woman-owned firms for VIA work.
The study team will also interview businesses and trade associations about the local marketplace.
Keen Independent Research is a national consulting firm specializing in equity studies. The firm recently performed a disparity study for Opportunity Home (formerly San Antonio Housing Authority).
The team includes aMAEzing Marketing Group and the law firm Holland & Knight.
The disparity study will be completed in late 2023.
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