It is recommended that the City Council authorize the execution of a contract with the Fort Worth Metropolitan Black Chamber of Commerce in an amount not to exceed $126,504.00 to assist Minority and Women Business Enterprises and Small Businesses for the period of October 1, 2017 through September 30, 2018.

During the Fiscal Year 2017-2018 budget process, the City Council approved financial support for the Fort Worth Metropolitan Black Chamber of Commerce (Chamber) to continue providing business development assistance, construction assistance and outreach programs to Minority and Women Business Enterprises and Small Businesses located in Fort Worth.  The City will pay the Chamber an amount not to exceed $126,504.00 to perform the services outlined under this contract.

For several years, the Chamber has provided counseling and support to individuals within the Fort Worth area on the topic of small business development.  The Chamber provides program services such as business development initiatives, outreach, construction assistance that includes bid estimating and related access to construction estimating software and one-on-one counseling and mentoring.  In conjunction with these programs, the Chamber coordinates monthly business roundtables and other activities designed to help small business development and growth.