Prince William County to Launch Comprehensive Disparity Study in October

Beginning in October, the Prince William County Office of Procurement will conduct a comprehensive disparity study to address gaps and disparities that potential vendors might face in doing business with the county.

A critical component of the public procurement process is ensuring equitable policies so that all interested suppliers and vendors have fair access to county contracting opportunities. This extensive study will examine the procurement process to determine if disparities exist and assess county spending as it pertains to women-owned, minority-owned/non-minority businesses, as well as veteran-owned and veteran service-disabled businesses, where data is available.

The study will determine the effects of race, ethnicity and gender on the ability to do business in the county marketplace. Data will be gathered across several procurement categories, including construction, architectural and engineering services, professional and non-professional services and goods and supplies.

Business engagement will be a key focus of the study, with opportunities for businesses to share their experiences and provide input through focus groups, one-on-one interviews and surveys. These efforts will help assess businesses' experiences and their ability to win contracts or subcontracts within the county.

The Office of Procurement will work closely with the business community, professional organizations and the county’s contractor, who is conducting the survey, to ensure that as many businesses as possible learn of the study and have the opportunity to participate.

The study's first engagement session will take place virtually on Thursday, Oct. 24, at 5 p.m., during the PWC Disparity Study Virtual Business Engagement Meeting. Additional engagement sessions are scheduled in January.

For more information, including focus group dates and other participation options, visit the county’s disparity study website at pwcvadisparitystudy.com.

The study is expected to conclude in July 2025. Upon completion, the Office of Procurement will present the results and any policy recommendations to the Board of County Supervisors.

“This study is a critical step in ensuring equitable policies and access for all interested suppliers and vendors. By promoting fairness, we are also enhancing the quality of services we provide to our residents,” said County Executive Chris Shorter. “Our ultimate goal is to create an inclusive environment where every business has a fair opportunity to contribute, which in turn ensures we are delivering the best possible service to our community.” 

The county has contracted with Management of America Consulting, or MGT, to conduct the survey. MGT has more than 30 years of experience, is the largest disparity study providers in the country and has conducted more studies than any other firm in the United States. MGT has conducted disparity studies locally in Alexandria, Arlington and Montgomery County.

For any questions, contact Markus Crewe, the county's Vendor Relations Coordinator, at [email protected].