Program Objective

The broad objectives of the Procurement Office underscore the directives of Article 15-A of the Executive Law as SUNY broadens its commitment to minority and women-owned business enterprises. They include, but are not limited to:

Translating policy statements and philosophical commitments into implementation of goals set for all State agencies.
The inclusion of the M/WBE Program as one of the University's priorities comparable to similar University-wide programs having significant impact on the economic well-being of the State.
Bringing about greater sensitivity and responsiveness system-wide to the unique needs and requirements of M/WBEs.
Initiating interagency cooperation as related to the development of the M/WBE Program potential.
Encouraging and facilitating the process for minority and women owned business enterprises to participate in the procurement process with SUNY.

SERVICES

General responsibilities of the Procurement Office are carried out through a variety of services performed by the office. A partial list of the services are provided below:

Provide leadership to University purchasing agents in the area of economic development for M/WBEs.
Coordinate the development of sound aggressive plans, policies and activities for more effective utilization of minority and women-owned business enterprises.
Provide continuous feedback to University Officials and oversight State agencies on the progress towards a balanced economic development program for M/WBEs.
Review existing University policies and purchasing procedures and make recommendations concerning amendments that would facilitate the awarding of University contracts to minority and women-owned business enterprises.
Educate University officials and the business community to the needs of minority and women-owned business enterprises.
Coordinate technical assistance for the minority and women-owned business enterprises and institutions through contacts with other State and local agencies having such capabilities.
Coordinate efforts of SUNY System Administration offices which can contribute to the enhancement of this University-made effort. (Example: Small Business Development Center, Affirmative Action, and Construction Fund).
Participate in and coordinate foists which are designed to bring together other State agencies and SUNY units for a smooth exchange of ideas and information and to create common understanding and aggressive movement toward the M/WBE goals.
Maintain a system of evaluation to insure that objectives are being addressed and/or adjusted to the needs of affected constituency.
Provide assistance in conjunction with appropriate State agencies to enhance the certification of minority and women-owned business enterprises.