Funded by UKSPF, the Minority Business Matters (MBM) programme was launched to support the growth and visibility of ethnic minority businesses (EMBs) across London. A joint initiative by MSDUK and Heart of the City, the programme combines supplier diversity expertise with responsible business practices, aiming to equip EMBs with the tools, networks, and knowledge to become ‘supplier-ready’ and competitive in both public and private sector markets.
Bean Research undertook an independent process and impact evaluation of MBM, drawing on programme data, participant surveys, and interviews with both EMBs and corporate partners. The evaluation assessed the programme’s effectiveness to date and identified opportunities for refinement in the extension phase.
Our findings indicate that MBM holds strong potential as a catalyst for supplier diversity and inclusive economic development. The programme exceeded expectations in reach and engagement, delivering tangible outcomes for both EMB participants and corporate stakeholders through tailored support and capacity-building activities.
Our final evaluation report outlined both achievements and challenges, offering forward-looking recommendations to enhance the programme’s impact. Several of these recommendations have already been integrated into the design of the extension phase, ensuring continued relevance and responsiveness to EMB needs.
“Bean Research came in to evaluate the 2-year MBM project approximately 10 months before it was due to finish. They helped us systematise the data that we had already collected and design an effective exit survey that enabled us to capture the relevant data. Arani and Charlotte established excellent working relationship with the MBM team across both partner organisations. They were understanding and respectful of the pressures of our jobs throughout. They were able to not only evaluate the work that we have done but suggest meaningful improvements, which we have already started to implement. They were generous with their time and their knowledge.”
Nadia Forde, MBM Programme Manager, Heart of the City
