Allegheny County Department of Equity and Inclusion – Pittsburgh, PA

Department of Equity and Inclusion: Fostering Opportunity

The Allegheny County Department of Equity and Inclusion, located in the County Office Building on Forbes Avenue, is dedicated to creating a fair and inclusive environment for businesses and residents. Formerly known as the MWDBE Department, its primary mission is to build the capacity of Minority, Women, and Disadvantaged Business Enterprises (MWDBE) and ensure they have equitable access to county contracting opportunities. The department works tirelessly to eliminate barriers to economic participation, promoting diversity that reflects the demographics of Allegheny County.

Certification and Business Support

A central function of the department is acting as a certifying partner in the Pennsylvania Unified Certification Program (PA UCP). Services include:

• Certification: Processing applications for businesses seeking status as Minority Business Enterprises (MBE), Women Business Enterprises (WBE), and Disadvantaged Business Enterprises (DBE). This certification is recognized statewide and is often a prerequisite for government contracts.
• Technical Assistance: Providing guidance, training, and resources to help small businesses navigate the government procurement process and improve their operational capacity.
• Contract Compliance: Monitoring county contracts to ensure that prime contractors meet established participation goals for MWDBE usage. The department sets goals (e.g., 13% for MBEs and 2% for WBEs) and reviews “Good Faith Effort” documentation.

Outreach and Advocacy

Beyond certification, the department engages in robust outreach efforts to connect certified firms with decision-makers. It hosts networking events, workshops, and the annual “Open House” to facilitate relationships between MWDBEs and county departments. The department also advocates for policies that support workforce diversity and economic inclusion across the region.

Location and Contact

The department operates out of Suite 204 in the County Office Building at 542 Forbes Avenue. This central downtown location allows for easy access for business owners attending meetings or certification interviews. The staff is available to assist with questions regarding the certification portal and contract requirements.