Accelerating MWBE Certification Across New York State

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced the launch of the “Whirlwind Winter” initiative, an effort to help Minority- and Women-owned businesses in New York State complete their applications for MWBE certification during the first month of winter 2024. Running from December 1 to December 31, 2024, the initiative leverages a statewide network of business advisory centers to provide free, comprehensive support to MWBE applicants.

“Winter in New York brings new opportunities for growth and transformation, and our statewide network of business advisors stands ready to help entrepreneurs succeed,” Governor Hochul said. “Through our Whirlwind Winter initiative, we're ensuring minority and women-owned businesses across our state have the support they need to navigate the certification process and access state contracting opportunities. When we remove barriers and streamline processes, we create a more dynamic and inclusive economy that benefits all New Yorkers.”

MWBEs can connect with the following organizations for free application assistance during the Whirlwind Winter initiative:

Empire State Development President, CEO, and Commissioner Hope Knight said, “The Whirlwind Winter initiative leverages our strong network of business advisory centers to provide targeted, practical support to MWBE applicants. By offering dedicated assistance throughout December, we're helping qualified businesses complete their certification applications efficiently and positioning them to compete for state contracts. This initiative is about turning certification goals into tangible business opportunities for New York's diverse entrepreneurial community.”

Chief Diversity Officer Julissa Gutierrez said, “The Whirlwind Winter initiative represents our commitment to meeting business owners where they are. By connecting entrepreneurs with free, expert guidance during the certification process, we're turning what can seem like a daunting process into an achievable goal. This hands-on approach reflects New York's dedication to building a certification program that works for everyone, particularly during a time when many businesses are planning for the year ahead.”

While New York State is already reviewing MWBE applications in as little as 90 days, participants in the Whirlwind Winter initiative may receive even faster certification determinations. By offering access to expert business advisors and tailored assistance, the program empowers MWBEs to navigate the certification process efficiently, accelerating their path to certification and unlocking new opportunities to engage in state contracting, ultimately driving economic growth across New York.

To qualify for certification, businesses must meet the requirements set forth in Executive Law Article 15-A and Title 5. Applicants must respond to DMWBD requests for clarifying information or documentation within five business days upon receiving such requests to avoid delays in the review process.

Assemblymember Rodneyse Bichotte Hermelyn said, “As New York State and City keep breaking records and barriers for MWBE success - including historic contract award dollars and utilization rates - Governor Hochul’s ‘Whirlwind Winter’ Initiative is another great step towards a level economic playing field. By cutting red tape and providing top-notch resources for minority and women entrepreneurs to get certified quicker and easier, we’re building a stronger, more equitable economy for all New Yorkers.”

Governor Hochul's Support for New York's MWBEs

The Whirlwind Winter initiative builds on Governor Hochul's ongoing efforts to empower New York's small businesses and strengthen local economies. In May, during Small Business Month, the Governor announced that New York had not only met but exceeded its goal of reducing MWBE certification application response times to 90-120 days. Since August 1, 2023, Empire State Development has successfully certified and recertified over 3,450 businesses, a milestone achieved through the Governor's robust support for MWBEs, including the landmark achievement of eliminating New York's long-standing MWBE certification backlog. This progress was made possible by an $11 million investment in the FY 2023 Budget, underscoring the Governor's commitment to fostering an inclusive and dynamic business environment.

Additionally, Governor Hochul recently announced that New York State has surpassed its 30 percent Minority- and Women-owned Businesses (MWBE) utilization goal for the fourth consecutive year, achieving a nation-leading 32.21 percent utilization rate. This milestone represents nearly $3 billion in public contracts awarded to certified MWBEs in FY 2023-24 and nearly $12 billion since Governor Hochul took office. At the 14th Annual New York State MWBE Conference Forum, themed "Solidifying our Future: A Commitment to Expanding Opportunities for MWBEs," Governor Hochul unveiled the new NYS MWBE Certified Decal. This decal serves as official recognition of MWBEs certified by the state's MWBE Certification Program, enhancing visibility and positioning businesses for additional contracting opportunities with government and private sector entities that prioritize diversity and equity.