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Policies, Programs and Practices for Local Leaders

While there is no one-size-fits-all inclusion policy or program, every city can take steps to address racial inequities in procurement. Through a community of practice, including 8 cities participating in NLC’s City Innovation Ecosystems program, we’ve learned that the buy-in of city leadership is crucial in effective policy change. This action guide includes concrete examples of evidence-backed interventions city leaders can implement for minority-owned businesses to successfully apply for and win contracts. These interventions are promising in closing the racial wealth gap and securing the economic future of families, cities and regions.