ALBANY, N.Y. — During the 14th Annual New York State MWBE Conference Forum on Tuesday, Governor Hochul announced New York State has surpassed its 30 percent Minority and Women-owned Businesses utilization goal for the fourth year in row. This year’s 32.21 percent utilization rate represents nearly $3 billion in public contracts awarded to certified MWBEs and nearly $12 billion since Governor Hochul took office. Hocuhl also unveiled a new MWBE certified decal seen below.
“Since becoming Governor, my administration has championed an economic agenda that benefits all New Yorkers, and this year’s utilization rate shows the progress we have made toward achieving that goal,” Governor Hochul said. “We have more to do, but diversity is New York’s greatest strength and our communities are our greatest voice – together, we will continue to promote nation-leading programs and policies that support a fairer, stronger, diversified economy.”
Since the start of the program in 1988, New York State’s MWBE program has been a model for expanding economic opportunity and supporting diverse business growth. The program works to give MWBEs the skills, resources, and connections for success.
The annual NYS MWBE Forum offers support to both new and established businesses. This year’s theme was “Solidifying our Future: A Commitment to Expanding Opportunities for MWBEs” and featured networking opportunities between certified MWBEs, New York State agencies, prime contractors and private companies, as well as panel discussions and workshops.
The forum’s panel discussions covered topics including contracts in mega projects, discretionary opportunities and agency capital plans. The workshops focused on addressing access to money, contract competition strategies, certification process navigation, retail and technology opportunities and training programs including the Business Growth Accelerator.
More information on the 14th annual forum can be found on the New York State website here.
