State Network of Business Assistance Centers and Small Business Development Centers to Help Streamline the Certification Process

Improved Free Support with Certification Process Available Until August 30, 2024

Participants Can Receive Certification Determination in Just 90 Days

Builds on the Governor's Continued Commitment to Supporting Small Businesses in All Regions

Governor Kathy Hochul today unveiled a statewide effort led by Empire State Development to promote minority and women-owned business (MWBE) opportunities throughout New York State. This “Sail-Thru Summer” initiative encourages applicants to collaborate with local Entrepreneurship Assistance Centers (EACs) or Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs) to complete their New York State MWBE certification applications. These specialized centers provide free expert guidance throughout the application process, helping applicants navigate requirements efficiently and submit complete and accurate documentation for a potentially faster certification decision.

"This initiative marks an important step forward in our commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive business environment in New York State," said Governor Hochul . "By streamlining the MWBE certification process, we're not just opening doors — we're actively empowering women- and minority-owned businesses to play a larger role in the economic growth and success of our state."

ESD Commissioner Hope Knight unveiled the initiative at the NYC MWBE Expo 2024 in Manhattan, marking an important step forward in New York's commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive business landscape. Applicants can search for their local EAC here and SBDC here .

Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight said, "By partnering with EAC and SBDC, we provide practical support to applicants, potentially shortening the certification timeline and ultimately expanding opportunities for our diverse business community. This initiative reflects our customer service approach to the certification process and our continued effort to further strengthen New York's nationally leading MWBE program."

This streamlined process is intended to expedite certification determinations, with eligible participants potentially receiving decisions in as little as 90 days. All companies must meet the standards outlined in Article 15-A and Title 5 of the Executive Law to qualify for MWBE certification. Learn more about the New York State MWBE program .

Governor Hochul's Support for New York MWBEs

This initiative further reinforces Governor Hochul's ongoing commitment to empowering New York small businesses and strengthening local economies. During Small Business Month in May, the Governor announced that New York had not only met but exceeded its goal of reducing turnaround times for MWBE certification applications to 90-120 days. As of August 1, 2023, Empire State Development has successfully certified and recertified more than 2,530 businesses. This progress builds on Governor Hochul's strong support for MWBEs, including the historic achievement of eliminating New York's long-standing MWBE certification backlog, made possible by an $11 million investment in the Fiscal Year Budget 2023.