HARRISBURG, PA — The Shapiro-Davis Administration has escalated its efforts to broaden state contracting opportunities for small businesses (SBs), small diverse businesses (SDBs), and veteran business enterprises (VBEs). This initiative is a cornerstone of the administration’s strategy to cultivate a more inclusive and robust economic environment within the state.
Central to this effort is the newly launched Mentor Protégé Program (MPP), established under Executive Order 2023-18 by Governor Josh Shapiro. This program strategically pairs experienced prime contractors with emerging business owners, aiming to enhance their management and bidding capabilities. Lt. Gov. Austin Davis emphasized the program’s importance, stating, “The Shapiro-Davis Administration is working hard to reach out to small businesses and help them get in the game when it comes to pursuing contracts with the Commonwealth. Small businesses are the backbone of our economy and the beating heart of so many Pennsylvania communities.”
The Department of General Services (DGS) has also adjusted the revenue limit for defining a small business, raising it from $38.5 million to $47 million. This adjustment allows a broader spectrum of businesses to participate in state contracts, thereby promoting competition and growth. In addition, over 70 outreach events have been conducted, reaching more than 3,000 business owners, signifying a robust commitment to inclusive procurement practices.
Furthermore, DGS Secretary Reggie McNeil highlighted the administration’s dedication to dismantling barriers for small, diverse, and veteran-owned businesses, stating, “By launching initiatives like the Mentor Protégé Program and expanding our outreach efforts, we’re not just opening doors—we’re breaking down barriers that have historically kept small, diverse, and veteran-owned businesses from thriving.”
The economic implications of these initiatives are profound. They are expected to foster job creation, enhance competitiveness, and stimulate generational wealth within the state’s diverse communities. The recent Small Business Empowerment Summit, attended by over 400 individuals, including prominent figures like U.S. Sen. Bob Casey, further exemplifies the state’s commitment to empowering small businesses.
As Pennsylvania continues to evolve its procurement processes, the Shapiro-Davis Administration’s initiatives are poised to play a crucial role in transforming the state’s economic landscape, ensuring that small businesses are integral to its future growth and success.
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