Availability Study: Data Collection & Analysis

The City of Columbus, Ohio, through its Office of Diversity and Inclusion (ODI), is seeking a qualified vendor to conduct a comprehensive Availability Study focusing on data collection and analysis of businesses capable of performing work on city contracts. The primary objective is to identify businesses that are ready, willing, and able to participate in city procurement across construction, professional services, and goods and services categories. Key deliverables include a detailed review of five years of data (2019-2023), stakeholder engagement, custom census surveys, and a final report with actionable recommendations for program refinements. The project requires extensive data collection strategies, including cross-referencing multiple databases and employing rigorous data validation techniques. Evaluation criteria will be point-based across seven categories totaling 100 points, with the highest weight given to project approach (20 points) and offeror competency (20 points). Key dates include a proposal posting on October 31, 2025, written questions due by November 4, 2025, and final proposals due on November 21, 2025, with an anticipated project duration of 6 months.

The study will specifically examine businesses across various certification categories, including Small Business Enterprise (SBE), Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE), Socially and Economically Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (SRBE), Minority Business Enterprise (MBE), Women Business Enterprise (WBE), Veteran Business Enterprise (VBE), and other diverse business classifications. While no specific incumbent vendor is mentioned, the study aims to comprehensively analyze market capacity and vendor availability in Ohio. The selected vendor will be expected to produce both digital and hard copy reports, conduct oral presentations to city leadership, and provide post-study support including training and workshops. Although a specific budget is not explicitly stated, the comprehensive nature of the study and the detailed requirements suggest a significant investment in understanding and improving the city's supplier diversity programs. The final deliverables will be critical in helping the City of Columbus optimize its procurement processes and ensure meaningful opportunities for diverse businesses.