Governor Hochul Announces the 2023 New York State Minority and Women-Owned Business Enterprise Regional Opportunities Expo Series

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that New York State will host three events as part of the 2023 New York State Minority and Women-Owned Business Enterprise Regional Opportunities Expo Series. The expos — which will connect Minority and Women-Owned Business Enterprise with New York agencies and authorities, expert resources, information on State projects and tools to access State contracting opportunities — will take place in Brooklyn on June 20, in Syracuse on June 28, and in Buffalo on July 13.

"New York draws strength from its diversity, and it is a priority for my administration to ensure that businesses from every corner of our state are provided the opportunity to thrive," Governor Hochul said. "Through these informative events, we are forging powerful connections both among MWBEs and between MWBEs and the State, empowering these businesses with essential resources and relationships to succeed."

The 2023 New York State MWBE Regional Opportunities Expo Series, sponsored by Empire State Development's (ESD) Division of Minority and Women's Business Development, will provide Minority and Women-Owned Business Enterprise's (MWBE) with the resources necessary to successfully secure State contracts through interactive sessions, engaging panel discussions, and capacity-building workshops. By harnessing the knowledge shared by industry experts and connecting directly with procurement officers, MWBEs will gain a wealth of understanding, strategic guidance, and valuable connections.

The expos will also include information about State-sponsored financial and technical assistance programs, including the MWBE Business Growth Accelerator Program, the MWBE Bridge to Success Loan Program, and the New York State Small Business Credit Initiative. Key exhibitors include the New York Power Authority, the Dormitory Authority of the State of New York, the New York State Department of Health, New York State Thruway Authority, The City University of New York, The State University of New York, the New York State Department of Transportation, New York State Department of State, New York State Department of Agriculture & Markets and the New York State Department of Transportation, as well as other State transportation, construction and education agencies and authorities with billions of dollars in opportunities.

Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight said, "Fairness and equity lie at the heart of a thriving economy, and in the Empire State, we stand firm in our commitment to leveling the playing field for MWBEs. By ensuring an equal opportunity for these businesses to compete for New York State contracts, we can tap into the boundless potential of our diverse entrepreneurial community."

New York State Chief Diversity Officer Julissa Gutierrez said, "The heartbeat of New York's economic engine is fueled by the innovation and determination of MWBEs. We must foster an environment where every business, regardless of size or background, can stand shoulder to shoulder and compete for state contracts. The MWBE Regional Opportunities Expo Series will help MWBEs move towards a path of growth and prosperity."

Empire State Development Division of Minority-and Women-Owned Business Enterprise Development Executive Director Jason Myles Clark said, "The growth of MWBEs is not just crucial for the individual businesses, but for the success of our State's economy. By increasing access to New York State contracts for MWBEs, we are investing in the economic vibrancy of the Empire State."

Increasing the utilization of MWBE firms in State contracting is a central goal of New York's MWBE program, which harnesses the full potential of MWBEs and drives equitable economic growth across the State. During the 2022 fiscal year, Governor Hochul announced that New York State surpassed its official utilization goal with 30.64 percent, the highest in the country. Nearly $3 billion in State contracts were awarded to MWBE firms during the same period, and more than $24 billion in State contracts have been awarded to MWBEs since 2011. New York State has over 9,800 certified MWBE firms in its directory.

The 2023 MWBE Regional Opportunities Expo Series kicks off in New York City on Tuesday, June 20th and will continue through July. The events are free of charge for registered attendees and will be held in person. Expo highlights and how to register:

• Local Project Presentations by New York State Agencies and Authorities and Prime Contractors including grantees. You will learn more about the project scope of work and how your business can express interest.

• Networking with multiple New York State Agencies and Authorities and companies/organizations. Your business can make real-time connections, share details about your services/goods, and ask questions.

• Workshops covering topics including access to capital and financing for your business.