Social procurement involves using procurement strategies and processes to generate positive outcomes in addition to the delivery of efficient goods, services and works. Social procurement connects a governments social, economic, and business goals to expand opportunities to targeted areas and groups. It is a federal policy currently used in the of Canadian and Australian governments.
With focus on local areas, keep in mind that a social procurement policy in Texas for example would be different then a social procurement program in New York or California. Yes, small and diverse businesses would encompass the core of these initiatives, but it would also cover processes like employing local workers, purchasing fair trade products from domestic or foreign countries, and ethical supply chain support.