Disparity studies are research tools organizations use to determine whether there is disparity between the utilization and availability of firms in NYCEDC’s market area.  Specifically, NYCEDC will evaluate the use of minority- and women-owned firms in commercial real estate transactions compared to the availability of such firms in its marketplace. Through the collection of qualitative data, a disparity study seeks to understand the effects of race, ethnicity, and gender on a firm’s ability to do conduct real estate transactions in New York City—in both the public and private sectors.

Quantitative data is numerical, measurable, and other quantifiable information that is analyzed using mathematical and statistical modeling.  Among other things, the quantitative analyses in a disparity study will include a comparison of the availability and utilization of minority- and women-owned firms in NYCEDC’s marketplace. 

Qualitative data is information that is not based on numbers. In this case, developers provide information about their actual experiences on the effects of race and gender on their ability to do or attempt to do business with NYCEDC or participate in real estate transactions in the private sector. Qualitative data help explain and lend credence to the statistical findings of the disparity study. The data also help identify how one’s race, ethnicity, or gender prevents firms from participating in such transactions. 

Developers that conduct business or want to engage in business deals in NYCEDC’s marketplace are impacted by NYCEDC’s policies, procedures, and guidelines. Participation in this Study allows developers to provide first-person accounts of their experiences in the marketplace. Input from the commercial real estate community may help NYCEDC better understand whether discrimination poses barriers for developers and, if so, how best to eliminate that discrimination and remedy its effects.

There are many options for a firm to provide their experiences.

• A firm can complete the Contact Form and MGT will reach out to gather more detailed information regarding the experiences.
• A firm can contact us directly at [email protected]

NYCEDC will be presented with the Study’s findings to determine whether and to what extent NYCEDC may use race and/or gender-conscious remedial measures, if appropriate.