New York’s trailblazing MWBE program has always broken down barriers and unlocked opportunities for thousands of MWBEs in our state. The NY government is committed to and provides critical resources for Minority- and Women-Owned businesses to help them succeed. Those NY government entities and partner businesses are all interested in making our economy the strongest, most diverse, accessible, and inclusive. What current programs are assisting NY MWBEs with the tools they need to succeed? What are new ideas in this area, and what are partner businesses providing? We hear from leaders in this area.

New York State is committed to assisting businesses across all market sectors to increase contracting opportunities with State agencies and authorities.  This process requires sorting through many opportunities and identifying the ones that are right for each organization.  While New York strives to promote equality of economic opportunities for MWBEs, it is also working hard to eliminate barriers in respect to participation in state and city contracts. Major challenges faced by these firms are limited access to networks and information, and a lack of access to capital at affordable rates.  How can certifications, specialized training, grants and other resources assist these companies? How can membership organizations, unions, companies and government assist here?

The opportunities for government contracts in New York are practically limitless. New York State and New York City have set forth bold efforts to increase contracting opportunities for certified M/WBEs in the development of public projects. With more than $43 billion of construction contracts awarded in 2022 by the City of New York alone, there are still plenty of business opportunities to be had.  How can we promote productive capital spending, encourage public/private partnerships and design build and make sure MWBE's and small business can fit into the implementation of major government projects? This panel will break down new projects and opportunities in New York, including transportation, construction, technology, energy, and more.

New York is working harder than ever to implement inclusive hiring practices and DEI frameworks to make sure that all environments are diverse. These strategies help promote good outcomes and help organizations remain competitive. What else can the government and all sectors do to increase diversity and inclusion? How can New York’s ensure that the diversity in this city and state is further embraced? What works for a successful organization in terms of their Call to Action strategies? What should a framework look like moving forward?