First, the available data shows that some corporations may
have traditionally lacked a commitment to MBE purchasing, often
using such programs merely as a way of courting public goodwill
(Shah and Ram, 2006). Second, identifying which firms qualify as
“minority” can be difficult and complicated. Some preliminary
reports have shown that non-minorities can easily pose as minorities
and have done so. Bates (2001) review of the representation of minority-owned firms in the nation's supply chains concluded
“despite the important affirmative efforts of government, preferential
market access continues to be a trait enjoyed by small firms owned by
white males.” Finally, identifying qualified suppliers who meet the
corporations' definition of “minority” may prove costly.