Delaware governor signs order that aims to help small companies get state contracts

Del. gov signs order meant to help small companies

DOVER, Del. — Delaware Gov. Jack Markell wants to make it easier for small and mid-sized businesses to bid on state contracts.

Markell signed an executive order Tuesday that aims to promote supplier diversity. It directs the state Office of Minority and Women Business Enterprise to train workers at small and mid-sized businesses in applying for state contracts and to tell them how to find out about bidding opportunities.

The order will create a centralized, online publication listing all advertised and awarded state contracts.

Markell says expanding the number of companies that bid helps make government more cost-effective, and increases competition, “which can drive up quality, and drive down prices.”