Written & Published Work
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Congress is currently considering legislation that poses a significant threat to women's participation in federal contracting. S.4390 seeks to eliminate Section 637(m) of the Small Business Act, the anti-discrimination measure that helps ensure women can compete for federal procurement opportunities. Research from MKC reveals a stark disparity: white male-owned firms receive 70-75% of federal contracts, accumulating an astonishing $10.8 trillion in revenue, while white women-owned firms capture merely about 5%, generating $1.75 trillion. Women of color fare even worse, securing 2-3% and generating $950 billion. Research highlights the urgent need for Congress to reject S.4390 to protect vital gender-based protections and support the $2.7 trillion contribution of white women-owned businesses to the U.S. economy.

The Cultural Destination Area Study highlights eight key cultural corridors in Saint Paul and outlines how a $756,000 investment can strengthen cultural identity, support small businesses, and grow the local economy.

Councilmember Anika Bowie, who brought this study forward, called it a smart and much‑needed investment. Research from the National Main Street Center and the Brookings Institution shows similar corridor investments return $4–$7 per $1, suggesting $3M–$5.2M in potential new tax base for Saint Paul. Council President Rebecca Noecker noted that the City is already advancing several recommended strategies.

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Watch the discussion on YouTube, beginning at the 35.30 mark:  

https://www.youtube.com/live/Q2unXQCRUbA?is=8-FChmVp-LJH_lzi

Minnesota's economy relies heavily on small businesses, with over 533,000 firms employing 1.3 million workers, making up nearly99.5% of all businesses in the state. These businesses are vital, generating local tax revenue, supporting commercial, and keeping money within communities. However, this foundation is now threatened by three federal challenges: restrictions on DEI activities, rollbacks to the DBE program, and slowdowns in the SBA 8(a) pipeline. These issues impact Minnesota's small business ecosystem, particularly immigrant-owned firms, cash reserves, corridor commerce, and ongoing racial wealth and wage gaps.

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!

The OMB Commentary examines how recent federal guidance and administrative shifts are reshaping small‑business access to government contracting. The analysis shows this is not a DEI issue, but a pattern of market concentration and anti‑competitive dynamics that limit participation for emerging, minority‑owned, and women‑owned firms. The commentary provides cities and policymakers with clear, data‑driven insights to understand the risks and strengthen local business ecosystems.

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Every small business with less than $2.25M - 47M+ depending on NAICS code should submit a comment no later than July 13, 2026 at 11:59pm EDT.

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Official commentary can be found on the Federal Office of Management and Budget site:  https://www.regulations.gov/comment/OMB-2026-0034-31003

Saint Paul, MN is at a critical juncture. Economic strain is evident across University Avenue, the East Side, Payne-Phalen, the West Side, and Downtown, marked by shuttered storefronts and declining foot traffic. This is NOT a typical market fluctuation; it's the result of Metro Surge and three federal shifts: new DEI-related restrictions, rollbacks to the DBE program, and slowdowns in the SBA 8(a) pipeline. Together, these changes dismantle the support systems essential for the survival of small businesses in Saint Paul

A Triple Shock to America’s Small-Business Infrastructure Small are essential to the American economy, supporting local employment and generating tax revenue for public services. For years, federal contracting has provided a vital revenue stream, especially during economic downturns. Initiatives like the Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) program and SBA 8(a) Business Development Program aimed to address structural inequities and broaden federal market participation, enhancing and lowering procurement costs. However, in 2026, three federal significantly disrupted this foundation.

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!