The Target Market Program is a new contracting process where eligible small businesses will get priority for City contracts up to $100,000 instead of competing against larger, more established businesses. Beginning Jan. 1, 2017, City contract managers must select a small business for contracts under $100,000 anytime there are three or more qualified, enrolled small businesses available.
There are many benefits of participation in the Target Market Program. Current City suppliers who enroll in the Target Market Program will be able to more easily focus their efforts on responding to contracting opportunities they know they are qualified for, and will only compete against other businesses of a similar size. For those new to City contracts, the Target Market Program is a great way to get a foot in the door as the City seeks to diversify our pool of suppliers.
The Target Market Program only works if small businesses enroll and participate; if fewer than three enrolled businesses respond to a given contracting opportunity (RFP or Bid), that contract will revert back to the current City contracting process, with businesses of all sizes included in the pool.
With questions or for more information about the Target Market Program, including eligibility criteria and enrollment information, check out the City’s Target Market website or contact the City of Minneapolis Procurement Office at [email protected] or (612) 673-2500.