Small, Woman & Minority Program (SWAM)

Overview

It is the goal of the City of Newport News to facilitate the establishment, preservation, and strengthening of Small, Woman-owned, and Minority-owned (SWaM) firms and to encourage their participation in city contracts. Toward that objective, SWaM firms are encouraged to compete for city business and it is suggested that majority firms establish partnerships, joint ventures and subcontracts with SWaM firms when competing for city business.

SWaM firms are encouraged to obtain certification from the Virginia Department of Small Business and Supplier Diversity (SBSD). The city recognizes SBSD certified firms for many procurement opportunities. The City also recognizes certifications from other entities such as the National Minority Supplier Development Council (NMSDC) and its local affiliate Carolina-Virginia Minority Supplier Development Council (CVMSDC) and certification programs from other states.

SWaM firms interested in doing business with the City are encouraged to register with the Office of Purchasing by visiting the Vendor Registration Page. Procurement opportunities with an estimated value of $50,000 or less may be directly solicited to qualified vendors. Evidence of SWaM certification may be provided during the registration process. Most City procurement opportunities (Invitation for Bids, Request for Proposals, Unsealed Request for Proposals, and Request for Quotes) will be posted on the City’s e-Procurement Portal.

General contractors are encouraged to use the SBSD Directory or other relevant sources to identify SWaM firms to work on city contracts.

To access the SWAM Directory, please refer to the SBSD SWAM Vendor search page.

Upcoming Workshops and Events

For information and to register for upcoming workshops and events, please visit the SWaM information page.

Book an appointment with our SWaM Business Services Coordinator for additional resources and services regarding our program.