For the last several years, I’ve been a staunch advocate of businesses owned and operated by women and minorities (M/WBE). In 2013, I was proud to secure funding for a disparity study regarding the awarding of state contracts, which hadn’t been done since the early 1990s. I’ve also supported legislation that seeks to give M/WBE businesses more opportunities to secure lucrative projects, which allows them to employ local residents and empowers minorities and women to become leading employers in our state.

Next month, the Missouri Housing and Development Commission, in partnership with my office, is hosting a developer introduction workshop designed for individuals or organizations that have an interest and the capacity to become M/WBE developers. The class will guide participants on how to become an M/WBE and what that entails. The Missouri Housing Development Commission has a long history of providing exceptional workshops for the public. I strongly encourage those who are interested to attend. However, space is limited, so RSVP as soon as possible.

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