Report Fraud

The Division of Minority and Women' s Business Development (the “Division”) wants to hear from anyone who suspects fraud, waste, or abuse (collectively referred to  as “Allegations of Misconduct” below) involving the contracting or certification of New York State Minority and Women-Owned Business Enterprises (“MWBEs”). Allegations of Misconduct will be evaluated in accordance with Article 15-A of the Executive Law and established rules, regulations and policies of the Division and any other applicable law.

If the Division deems it appropriate, the Division may initiate a review based on the Allegations of Misconduct. Additionally, matters may be referred to another office within Empire State Development or to an external entity where appropriate.

When reporting an Allegation of Misconduct, please provide any relevant and specific details including, but not limited to:

  • The identity of the person, company, or organization alleged to have engaged in the misconduct;
  • A description of the alleged misconduct;
  • The MWBE vendor or program affected by the alleged misconduct;
  • Contract number(s) and date(s) of the alleged misconduct; and,
  • Any supporting documents such as email correspondence, invoices, pictures etc.

Please note: The Division encourages all MWBEs engaged in a contractual dispute, such as nonpayment for work completed, to directly contact the agency or authority of record for the contract. Though the Division does not have the authority to assist with contractual disputes, our intake staff will be happy to provide you with the necessary contact information for the MWBE liaison at the agency or authority managing the project.

Allegations of Misconduct can be reported by written statement, phone, or email. The DMWBD does not provide updates regarding the statuses of complaints.

Written Statement: Please complete the online reporting form below
Toll-free Hotline: (855) 373-4692 or (855) ESD-4MWB
Email: [email protected]

MWBE Fraud Complaint Form

Please provide the following information if known:

Please state your complaint clearly and concisely. You should enclose copies of all relevant documents - do not submit any original documents.
Files must be less than 2 MB.
Allowed file types: txt pdf doc docx.

If you choose to remain anonymous, you do not have to fill out identifying information.