Established through State and Government Articles §9–303.3, the MBE Ombudsman unit officially started during the Moore-Miller administration, in January 2024.

The Ombudsman will:

Work with prime contractors, MBEs, and state agencies to resolve issues that arise during contract performance

Develop policies and guidance to assist agencies in implementing the MBE Program

Oversee data collection of documented nonperformance by prime contractors

Conduct training for non-minority prime contractors as well as MBEs performing in the prime and/or subcontracting role

Conduct training for procurement officers, Compliance Officers, and MBE liaisons in units of State government on enforcement of the requirements of Title 14, Subtitle 3 of the State Finance and Procurement Article

Operate as the subject matter expert to executives, legislators, state personnel, and stakeholder organizations

The Ombudsman will not:

Conduct legal investigations or make legal determinations

Determine fault or innocence

Make decisions for agency staff

Vendors

Prior to contacting our office, we request that you

Step 1: Contact the Prime Contractor to resolve any issues

Step 2: Contact the State Agency Contract Monitor and/or MBE Liaison for assistance

Step 3: After following these steps, please contact the MBE Ombudsman

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Contact Us

An MBE Fraud Hotline exists for the purpose of reporting potential violations

against a certified MBE. A call to the hotline will trigger an investigation.

The more details you provide, the better chance we have of determining

whether fraud has been committed. Callers may remain anonymous.

If you suspect fraud against an MBE, call 410-697-9611.

Standards of Practice

Communications with the Ombudsman are confidential, and no information or opinion presented to an Ombudsman (or even the fact that the Ombudsman has been contacted) will be shared with other parties without the express permission of the visitor. The only exceptions to confidentiality are if required by law or litigation (such as in the case of fraud, violence, or criminal activity). ​Additionally, agencies, GOSBA staff, and the Assistant Attorney General assigned to the Office consult about cases in a confidential manner.

Impartial:

The MBE Ombudsman will work with small and minority business owners, prime contractors, and state personnel to ensure the laws, regulations, and established policies of the MBE program are followed.

Independent from any state agency

The MBE Ombudsman Unit operates within the Governor's Office of Small, Minority & Women Business Affairs.

Our Promise:

Conflict Resolution

We will listen to the concerns of the requesting party and brainstorm possible approaches to address concerns.

We will encourage and facilitate communication among involved parties, with the permission of the requesting party.

We will provide support to resolve problems and contact prime contractors or state personnel who might help resolve the matter.

Education and Training

We will provide educational opportunities and resources to help explain current laws, regulations, policies, and procedures of the MBE Program.

Promote Change

We will capture informational data to identify patterns and trends in the state contracting ecosystem. 

We will use information, data trends, and metrics to inform recommendations for changes in policy and regulations, encouraging positive systemic change.

We will work collaboratively with state agencies & executives, legislators, business resource organizations, chambers, and others to create better opportunities and a more inclusive atmosphere in state contracting for small, minority, and women-owned businesses. ​​​

News for You!
Find the latest updates, articles, or other information here.

​​Posted 4.12.2024

​​If your business has been affected by the Francis Scott Key (FSK) Bridge Collapse, you may be eligible for assistance through the Small Business Administration. Check out the new Francis Scott Key Bridge Collapse Response Website for more details and resources. The website will serve as the central location where all programs and resources will be shared as well as the locations where workers and businesses may receive in-person assistance. Website information will be updated as additional programs become available. Our hearts and prayers go out to the families affected by this tragedy.

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​​Posted 3.4.2024

The SBA has just announced that the application portal for the 2024 SBA T.H.R.I.V.E. Emerging Leaders Reimagined Program is open!  

The SBA T.H.R.I.V.E. program combines business fundamentals with innovative tools and competitive strategies that are tailored to small business owners like you. Through a comprehensive curriculum that covers everything from financial management to marketing and sales, you'll learn the skills and strategies you need to drive growth and achieve your business goals. With a mix of virtual and in-person sessions, the curriculum is taught by experienced subject matter experts and includes curated business coaching for C-level executives. As a participant, you'll also have the opportunity to network with other small business owners, share your experiences and learn from theirs, and receive ongoing support and mentorship from experienced coaches.​

To learn more and apply, please visit the website at sbathri​​ve.com.​​​