I own a small minority business. How can I win city contracts?
The city's minority participation rate is an outstanding 18.5 percent as compared to only two percent for the Commonwealth of Virginia.
Our office instituted new procedures to increase the minority contracting with the city. For too long, minority businesses were not working
in Richmond and that has changed.
A ground-breaking strategic alliance between the city and the U.S. Small Business Administration will further enhance minority business
development services for businesses like yours.
Are there any city programs that help small businesses?
The city provides financial support to small businesses through
Commercial Area Revitalization Effort (CARE) and
Enterprise Zone grants
that can be used for interior and exterior improvements, sprinkler or fire suppression system upgrades and other approved uses.
I would like to start my own business, but I have a felony on my record. Is there anyone at the city who can assist me in getting my business started?
Our office offers start-up information and other assistance to help individuals who want to go into business. Please contact us for more
information.
We also help those still incarcerated by supporting the City Jail's Belief Program, a 12-step peer-to-peer program that helps inmates who
are preparing for their release. This educational assistance improves their chances of successfully re-entering society and, at the same
time, helps to reduce the jail's recidivism rate.
