City launches 2026 disparity studies to examine equity in contracting and workforce opportunities

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The City of Portland has launched a pair of disparity studies to better understand whether systemic barriers affect access to City contracting and workforce opportunities for historically marginalized businesses and workers.

Authorized by City Council and expected to conclude in fall 2026, the studies will examine participation in City projects and evaluate conditions in the broader Portland marketplace. The findings will help inform future policy decisions and guide efforts to expand economic opportunity throughout the region.

The City has partnered with Keen Independent Research, an economic consulting firm that specializes in equity and disparity studies for state and local governments, to conduct the research.

Two studies will be completed as part of the effort:

• Contract Access Equity Disparity Study: Examines the participation of historically disadvantaged businesses in City contracts.
• Workforce Access Equity Disparity Study: Examines participation and opportunities for workers in construction and related trades.

The research team will gather information through business surveys, stakeholder interviews, and analysis of City contracting data and broader marketplace conditions. Survey work will be conducted by Customer Research International, a member of the study team.

This work builds on previous disparity studies completed for Prosper Portland and the Port of Portland and will help determine whether additional efforts are needed to support historically disadvantaged businesses and workers in the Portland region.

Community participation is an important part of the process. Businesses, workers, trade associations, and community organizations are encouraged to share their experiences and perspectives throughout the study.

The disparity studies are currently underway and are expected to be completed in fall 2026.

How to get involved

Questions, comments, or requests to participate can be directed to the study team:

• Telephone: 602-704-0125
• Email: [email protected]

For City-related questions, contact Tiffani Penson, Procurement Services - Goods and Services Manager, at [email protected].