What does "affirmative action" mean in contracting terms?

In the context of contracting, "affirmative action" refers to specific measures and policies designed to increase opportunities for minority-owned and women-owned businesses. This approach aims to address historical inequities and barriers that these groups have faced in the business environment, particularly in securing government contracts and participating in the broader economy.

By focusing on increasing access to contracting opportunities, affirmative action initiatives help to ensure a more diverse and inclusive marketplace, fostering a wider range of competitive bidders for government contracts. Such policies might include outreach programs, mentorship opportunities, or set-asides specifically intended for businesses owned by women and minorities, thus promoting equity within the contracting process. This aligns directly with the goals of affirmative action as it seeks to balance the scales in fields where representation has been historically lacking.