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Federal Communications Commission
445 12th Street, S.W.
Washington, D.C. 20554
News media information 202 / 418-0500
Fax-On-Demand 202 / 418-2830
Internet: http://www.fcc.gov
TTY: 202/418-2555


This is an unofficial announcement of Commission action. Release of the full text of a Commission order constitutes official action. See MCI v. FCC. 515 F 2d 385 (D.C. Circ 1974).

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
October 17, 2000

News Media Contact:
Lauren Northrop, 202-418-2100



COMMISSIONER SUSAN NESS HIGHLIGHTS FCC POLICY PROMOTING CONTRACTS WITH WOMEN-OWNED SMALL BUSINESSES


Commissioner Susan Ness today praised FCC staff action to expand opportunities for women-owned businesses that sell to the agency. Commissioner Ness commended the FCC Managing Director for taking steps consistent with President Clinton's May 23rd, 2000, Executive Order establishing a 5 percent goal for procurement of goods and services from women-owned small businesses.

The FCC policy announced today implements a comprehensive strategy to make the 5 percent objective a reality. This policy includes training and outreach to promote contracting with women-owned businesses, as well as the appointment of an advocate in the procurement division to ensure that this Agency is on track to meet our objectives.

Commissioner Ness stated, "I am pleased that we at the FCC are doing our part to encourage women-owned small businesses to bid on our contracts. I will do what I can to encourage us not only to meet, but exceed our goals."

There are currently 9.1 million women-owned businesses generating over $3.6 trillion in sales, and employing 27.5 million workers.*

*Statistics courtesy of the National Foundation for Women Business Owners