M/WBE FAQs

New York State

What is Executive Law Article 15-A?
Article 15-A of the Executive Law was signed into law on July 19, 1988. Under this statue, state agencies are charged with establishing employment and business participation goals for minorities and women.

Where can I obtain a copy of the directory of M/WBEs?
To see the Empire State Development Corporation, Minority & Women's Business Directory on the Internet, Click Here

Contract Goals

Do all CNYRTA contracts have goals for the participation of M/WBEs?
Construction contracts in excess of $100,000, Professional Services and Procurement contracts in excess of $25,000, are subject to M/WBE goal requirements. 

How are the M/WBE goals established?
Goals are established based upon geographic location of the project, job trades or service, previous project experience and M/WBE availability.

If I am a MBE or WBE can I count myself toward the goals?
No. Construction contracts in excess of $100,000, Professional Services and Procurement contracts in excess of $25,000, are subject to M/WBE goal requirements whether you are a NYS certified M/WBE Prime or not.

Registration/Certification

Do M/WBE firms have to be certified?
The use of non-NYS certified firms is not acceptable for M/WBE goal attainments. Only MBE/WBE firms certified by Empire State Development Corporation, Division of Minority & Women's Business Development can be utilized to meet M/WBE participation goals on CNYRTA contracts.

How do I become New York State certified?
To obtain information on becoming certified in New York State as a minority or woman-owned business, please contact:

The Department of Economic Development - Division of Minority and Women's Business Development

Albany:
Department of Economic Development
Division of Minority and Women's Business Development
30 South Pearl Street - 2nd Floor
Albany, NY 12245
Phone: (518) 292-5803

New York City:
Department of Economic Development
Division of Minority and Women's Business Development
633 Third Avenue
New York, NY 10017-6706
Phone: (212) 803-2411
Fax: (212) 803-3223