Empowering Diversity: Minority/Woman-Owned Business Enterprise (M/WBE)
Unlocking Opportunities
A Minority/Woman-Owned Business Enterprise (M/WBE) certification opens a world of developmental benefits and business possibilities for minority and women-owned businesses. This certification is a gateway to current and future state and local procurement prospects, broadening your reach to customers, contracts, and resources.
Which Category Fits You?
Minority Business Enterprise (MBE): If you're of a minority background (as defined below) and not a woman, you can apply as an MBE.
Women-Owned Business Enterprise (WBE): If you're a woman and not of a minority background, you can apply as a WBE.
Minority and Women-Owned Business Enterprise (M/WBE): If you're both a woman and of a minority background, you can apply for both MBE and WBE certifications.
Defining Minority-Owned Business Enterprise (MBE)
Under Article 15-A of the Executive Law, an MBE is a business enterprise that's at least 51% owned, operated, and controlled by citizens or permanent resident aliens from specific ethnic backgrounds:
Black: Origins from any Black African racial groups.
Hispanic: Mexican, Puerto Rican, Dominican, Cuban, Central or South American descent, regardless of race.
Asian-Pacific: Origins from the Far East, Southeast Asia, or Pacific Islands.
Asian-Indian Subcontinent: Origins from the Indian subcontinent.
Native American or Alaskan Native: Origins from the original peoples of North America.
Defining Women-Owned Business Enterprise (WBE)
A WBE, under Article 15-A of the Executive Law, is a business enterprise that's at least 51% owned, operated, and controlled by citizens or permanent resident aliens who are women.
The Benefits of Certification
Small Business Loans: Gain access to competitive interest rate loans tailored to M/WBE certified business enterprises, providing initial funding to launch your business.
Access to Databases: Access large databases from major corporations, government agencies, and M/WBE third-party directories. These databases help you find customers, bids, and awarded contracts.
Bids and Contracts: Secure contracts reserved for M/WBE businesses by federal and state governments, as well as corporations. Opportunities can be pursued as prime contractors or sub-contractors.
Networking Opportunities: Attend conferences and events hosted by certifying organizations. Build relationships, raise brand awareness, and enhance contract possibilities.
Educational and Training Resources: Benefit from free training programs, webinars, workshops, and mentorship programs to enhance contract acquisition strategies.
Eligibility Requirements
Eligibility criteria may vary by certifying agency, but generally, your business must:
Be at least 51% owned, operated, and controlled by U.S. citizens or permanent residents who are women and/or members of designated minority groups.
Be owned by a minority or woman with a personal net worth within set limits.
Fall within specific business legal structures.
Not exceed a certain number of employees defined by certifying agencies.
Have operated independently for at least a year.
Provide necessary corporate, tax, owner, and supporting documents.
Diversity fuels success. Let us guide you on the path to M/WBE certification and expanded opportunities. Your growth is our priority.
Trusted by Small Businesses
We’ve helped numerous NYS small businesses in getting M/WBE certified. When small businesses need to get it done without mistakes or delays, they come to us!