This new issue brief from the Local and Regional Government Alliance on Race & Equity (GARE) discusses the importance of equitable contracting within government procurement policy, strategy, and regulation. It describes structural barriers in business development and offers strategies to address inequities, such as sub-contracting, bid discounts, loan programs, and mentoring programs. The report draws from the experiences of GARE members who are fostering cultural change, building capacity, developing comprehensive approaches, and expanding inclusive procurement systems.