NYS offers new initiative to expedite MWBE certification

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New York State is offering an expedited initiative to advance minority and women-owned business enterprise (MWBE) opportunities.

Through this initiative, eligible applicants may receive MWBE certification determination in 90 days. The certification provides owners with opportunities to access government contracts and grow their business.

The statewide “Sail-Thru Summer” initiative through Empire State Development aims to encourage applicants to collaborate with Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs) or Entrepreneurship Assistance Centers (EACs) to complete their MWBE certification application. The centers provide free expertise through the process, helping applicants navigate requirements and submit complete, accurate documentation for a potentially faster certification decision.

“This initiative marks a significant step forward in our commitment to foster a diverse and inclusive business environment in New York State,” Gov. Kathy Hochul said in a news release about the initiative.

“By streamlining the MWBE certification process, we’re not just opening doors—we’re actively empowering minority and women-owned businesses to play a larger role in our state’s economic growth and success,” Hochul added.

“By partnering with EACs and SBDCs, we’re providing hands-on support to applicants, potentially shortening the certification timeline, and ultimately expanding opportunities for our diverse business community,” Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight said in the news release.

“This initiative reflects our customer service approach to the certification process and ongoing effort to further strengthen New York’s nation-leading MWBE program,” Knight added.

On Long Island, SBDCs are located at Farmingdale State College and Stony Brook University, which has satellite offices in the Brentwood Outreach Center by appointment only, Calverton Business Incubator, and Stony Brook Southampton. EACs are located at Hofstra University and Suffolk County Community College.

Previously, there had been a backlog of certification applications, which the state eliminated in November.