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MWDBE
Does applying for the NYCEDC Vendors List mean I am certified as M/WBE with New York City?
No. Our Vendors List is an internal database of firms interested in doing business with NYCEDC. New York City M/WBE Certification is a distinct process administered by SBS.
Who certifies businesses?
There are both private and public agencies that certify businesses as M/W/DBEs. While there is some cooperation between agencies, there is currently no reciprocity between agencies for certified businesses. A business will need to apply separately to each agency. In New York City metro area, the following agencies will certify businesses:
- New York City Department of Small Business Services (SBS)
- New York City School Construction Authority (SCA)
- New York State Department of Economic Development, Division of Minority & Women’s Business Development (ESDC)
- Port Authority of New York/New Jersey (PANY/NJ)
- US Small Business Administration (SBA)
- Women Presidents’ Educational Organization
- New York & New Jersey Minority Supplier Development Council, Inc.
What certifications are available for businesses?
Following are four most common certifications:
- Women-Owned Business Enterprise (WBE) – To be certified as a WBE, a business must show ownership by a woman for at least 51% of the business.
- Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) – An MBE business has at least 51% ownership by a member of a minority population.
- Locally Based Enterprise (LBE) – The LBE program is for small construction and construction related companies in New York City with annual revenue of less than $2 million. LBE firms must conduct at least 25% of their work in economically disadvantaged areas. NYC requires all prime contractors to use LBE certified sub-contractors to complete at least 10% of the total value of their contracts.
- Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) – This is a federal designation that requires businesses to meet economic and size standards established by US Small Business Administration. This certification is race and gender neutral.
Is there assistance available during the certification process?
NYCEDC and SBS have staff members available to provide technical assistance on the certification process. On a monthly basis, SBS holds group seminars on completing the certification application. M/W/DBE staff at NYCEDC is also available to provide one-on-one technical assistance to businesses on the certification related issues. In addition, M/W/DBE staff can work with neighborhood groups to bring the certification and other technical workshops directly to the community.