Minority Participation Programs and Public Contracting
This course will examine federal and state laws that encourage participation in public contracts by historically underutilized businesses (“HUBs”), minority and women-owned business enterprises (“MWBEs”), and disadvantaged business enterprises (“DBEs”). Instructors also will address the practical aspects of running a HUB / MWBE program, including preparing for a disparity study, the development of a HUB/MWBE plan, monitoring contractor compliance with HUB / MWBE requirements, following reporting requirements, and building the capacity of HUB or MWBE firms. Attendance is open to local government professionals as well as private sector participants with an interest in these matters.
This course is offered in conjunction with a new certification (“Certified Economic Inclusion Officer” or “CEIO”) offered by the N.C. MWBE Coordinators’ Network and assisted by the UNC School of Government. Individuals seeking CEIO certification will demonstrate sufficient knowledge, abilities, and experience in legal requirements and practical aspects of administering a HUB, MWBE, or DBE program in the State of North Carolina. To obtain CEIO certification, applicants must, among other things, complete this course and pass an examination administered by the UNC School of Government. More information is available here.
The 2025 offering of this course will be in person at the School of Government on March 25-26, 2025.
Additional information
If you’re interested in the Certified Economic Inclusion Officer Certification, please know that you’ll also need to take the following courses:
Basic Principles of Local Government Purchasing
Contracting for Construction and Design
This course is sponsored by the N.C. MWBE Coordinators' Network, check out their brochure in the materials section of this page.
Course materials will be provided here on the course webpage, as well as through Canvas. You will receive an email a week before the start of the course with Canvas information.
