Written & Published Work
Discover how race- and gender-neutral programs can unintentionally harm minority- and women-owned businesses by neglecting the systemic inequities they face. These policies often leave these businesses struggling with limited access to capital, diminished opportunities for networking, and exclusion from supplier diversity programs—further widening economic disparities. Learn why targeted, race-conscious strategies are crucial to breaking these barriers, fostering equity, and creating a thriving and diverse business ecosystem!
Explore how equitable procurement practices can revolutionize our economy, uplift communities, and empower underrepresented businesses. By fostering fairness, innovation, and resilience, these strategies not only create equal opportunities but also pave the way for a more inclusive and prosperous future. Dive into this insightful piece to explore actionable steps and impactful benefits that equitable procurement can bring to businesses and society as a whole!
The City of Saint Paul, in partnership with MaKee Company present findings from its feasibility study of Cultural Destination Areas (CDAs). The study assesses the current support framework for CDAs, focusing on their economic and social impacts on immigrant and refugee communities. Key findings recommend prioritizing commercial corridors in CDAs to enhance sustainability and resilience. By promoting community engagement, preserving cultural heritage, and supporting local businesses, the initiatives proposed aim to create vibrant neighborhoods that yield economic and societal benefits for the community.
Makee Company shares its study findings with the City Council of Rochester and Mayo Clinic’s Destination Medical Center (DMC), uncovering barriers faced by Minority/BIPOC, women, and disadvantaged businesses (DBEs). The study highlights challenges like bonding, training gaps, and cash flow while offering actionable strategies to foster inclusivity and growth. Watch the full presentation video to explore these transformative insights!
Discover how empowering small businesses can transform communities, drive innovation, and build a resilient, self-sufficient economy. Dive into real-world examples and actionable strategies that showcase the immense potential of small businesses in fostering sustainable progress and inclusive growth. Read on to explore the path to economic independence and prosperity!
Reconnect Rondo, in partnership with Makee Company, presents findings from its entrepreneurial study. This feasibility study aims to understand the entrepreneurial ecosystem, identify gaps in business support, and highlight key project areas in the Rondo Community and the City of Saint Paul, Minnesota's top growing industries. By understanding the current entrepreneurial landscape and addressing existing gaps, the study aims to create a supportive environment that fosters growth
and innovation.
Contracting fails to support individuals color, with under 6% of funds reaching these communities. Race-neutral policies often disadvantage minority businesses. To promote equity, agencies must implement race- and gender-conscious policies, leverage demographic data, and focus on education and reform. For a deeper understanding of systemic barriers in government contracting and necessary reforms, read the full article.
Makee Company, commissioned to conduct this study by the City of Rochester, MN and Mayo Clinic's Destination Medical Center, uncovers the systemic barriers faced by small, Minority/BIPOC, women, and disadvantaged businesses (DBEs) in Rochester. By examining stakeholder perspectives—including DBEs, the City, DMC, and capacity builders—the study highlights challenges like bonding, cash flow, training gaps, and limited networks. It offers actionable recommendations to foster inclusivity and support DBE growth, urging the City and DMC to create unified platforms, leverage local talent, and implement targeted programs for a more equitable and thriving ecosystem.Dive into this study to discover transformative insights for building an equitable and thriving ecosystem. For the full version, reach out to Makee Company via email today!
