Project Construction Policy Statement

Shoe4Africa recognizes the historical underrepresentation of minorities in construction/contracting and acknowledges the importance of promoting diversity and equal opportunities.

This policy establishes a framework to give precedence to contractors who are minorities in the procurement process for construction projects and other large contracts. Our goal is to create a more inclusive and equitable contracting environment that fosters economic growth and supports the advancement of minority-owned businesses.

Policy Objectives:

Promote Equal Opportunities: Ensure that minority-owned contractors have a fair chance to participate in contracting opportunities, fostering equal economic opportunities for all segments of society.

Encourage Diversity: Encourage a diverse pool of contractors by actively promoting the inclusion of minority-owned businesses, local contractors, which can bring unique perspectives, innovation, and value to our funded projects.

Address Historical Disadvantages: Address the historical disadvantages faced by minority-owned businesses by providing them with a preferential treatment that seeks to level the playing field and overcome barriers to entry and success.

Economic Empowerment: Stimulate economic empowerment within minority communities by providing access to contracts, thereby enhancing their capacity, competitiveness, and overall economic well-being.

Policy Guidelines:

Prequalification and Certification: a. Develop a comprehensive prequalification process to identify and certify contractors as minority-owned businesses according to established criteria and guidelines. b. Collaborate with relevant agencies to ensure consistent certification standards and procedures.

Contract Evaluation and Selection:

a. Prioritize minority-owned contractors in the evaluation and selection process for Shoe4Africa financed construction projects.

b. Establish clear evaluation criteria that consider the quality, capabilities, and capacity of minority-owned businesses while maintaining the highest standards of performance.

Outreach and Capacity Building:

a. Conduct proactive outreach efforts to increase awareness and participation of minority-owned contractors in federal procurement opportunities.

b. Collaborate with industry associations, chambers of commerce, and other relevant stakeholders to provide training, mentorship, and technical assistance programs to enhance the capacity and competitiveness of minority-owned businesses.

Reporting and Accountability:

a. Implement a robust monitoring and reporting mechanism to track the progress and outcomes of the policy’s implementation.

b. Regularly evaluate the effectiveness of the policy and make necessary adjustments based on the evaluation results.

Compliance and Non-Discrimination:

a. Ensure compliance with all applicable laws, regulations, and non-discrimination policies during the implementation of this policy.

b. Maintain transparency and fairness in the contracting process, avoiding any preferential treatment that may compromise the integrity of the procurement system.

Review and Continuous Improvement:

a. Periodically review and assess the policy’s impact, effectiveness, and relevance, considering feedback from stakeholders and emerging best practices.

b. Make appropriate revisions and improvements to the policy as necessary to align with evolving needs and objectives.