The governor sees this as an opportunity to invest in the state’s small businesses.
Earlier this month, Gov. Ralph Northam signed Executive Order Thirty-Five, an initiative aimed at advancing equity for Virginia’s small-, women-, minority-, and service disabled veteran-owned businesses.
“State contracting provides the catalyst for economic opportunity and expands access for many businesses,” said Secretary of Commerce and Trade Brian Ball in a statement issued by the governor’s office. “It is imperative for Virginia to maximize the participation of small businesses and to ensure that there is equity and transparency in the process.”
In addition to developing community outreach programs, Executive Order Thirty-Five increases the aid threshold to $80,000 for professional services, and $10,000 for micro businesses.
“Small businesses are a vital economic engine for Virginia, making up 97 percent of all businesses, but we know there is work to do to ensure they have equal opportunity to grow and succeed in our Commonwealth,” said Governor Northam.
