NYS pushes MWBE certification for Hispanic business owners statewide

The state is launching an initiative to promote its MWBE certification program to Hispanic business owners statewide in recognition of Hispanic Heritage Month, the governor’s office announced last week.

The MWBE, or Minority and Women Owned Business Enterprises certification, allows eligible business owners based in the state to have better access to state contracts and assistance in bidding on government projects. This month’s initiative, named Respuesta Rapida (Quick Response), is aimed at growing the number of Hispanic business owners with the certification.

"Something like this program, if it does work, is going to be good for our community," said Luis Vazquez, president of the Long Island Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. Many business owners in the Hispanic community are unaware of the MWBE program, or can get frustrated by the process of applying, he said.

"They just don’t know enough to make a decision, or they’re overwhelmed by the system," Vazquez said.

As part of the initiative, which runs to Oct. 31, the state hopes to connect interested business owners to its Empire APEX Accelerator, as well as local Entrepreneurial Assistance Centers and Small Business Development Centers throughout the state.

The centers offer free technical help to businesses applying for a MWBE certification, assisting applicants in receiving decisions on their application in 90 days.

"The MWBE program can open new doors for small business owners, but they are often deterred by the time-consuming, confusing, and complicated application process," Matt Cohen, president and CEO of the Long Island Association business group, said in a statement.

"It is crucial we keep taking additional steps to simplify and expedite certification for minority-owned businesses," Cohen said.

Gov. Kathy Hochul said in a statement that the initiative was "designed to break down barriers and create opportunities for Hispanic and minority and women-owned businesses."

"By simplifying the MWBE certification process, we’re ensuring entrepreneurs from all backgrounds have the tools they need to thrive and contribute to the growth of New York’s economy," Hochul said.

Although the goal of growing the state’s number of MWBE-certified businesses is worthwhile, Vazquez said, even certified firms can find it difficult to land a government contract.

"A lot of people get discouraged and they stop. We have to change those statistics," he said. "I think it’s a great effort from the state, but there’s got to be follow through."

For more information on the state’s MWBE program or to begin the application process, visit the state’s Division of Minority and Women’s Business Development site, or call 646-846-7364.