“Unfazed and Undeterred: A Commitment to our MWBE Community” — 2025 Forum Theme Celebrates 37 Years of MWBE Program Success
Features Interactive Workshops, Opportunity Showcase, and MWBE Champions Awards Honoring Outstanding Contributors
Registration Now Open for November 18 Event at Albany Capital Center
Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that the 15th Annual New York State Minority- and Women-Owned Business Enterprise (MWBE) Forum will take place on Tuesday, November 18 at the Albany Capital Center. Commemorating 37 years of the MWBE program in New York State, the theme of this year’s Forum, “Unfazed and Undeterred: A Commitment to our MWBE Community” highlights the achievements and continued growth of MWBEs across the state. Information about the Forum’s itinerary and the registration form can be accessed here.
“New York’s MWBE program stands as a national model for how states can lead with equity, opportunity, and results,” Governor Hochul said. “For nearly four decades, we’ve been breaking down barriers and building pathways for all businesses to compete and thrive. This year’s Forum celebrates not only how far we’ve come, but the dreams we continue to advance — empowering MWBEs to write the next chapter of New York’s success story.”
New York State Chief Diversity Officer Julissa Gutierrez said, “Our MWBEs are proof of what’s possible when we strive to make sure everyone has an opportunity to thrive. ‘Unfazed and Undeterred’ speaks to the perseverance and vision of thousands of our MWBE business owners across New York who continue to lead, innovate, and grow. This Forum honors their resilience while connecting them to the resources and relationships that turn vision into achievement.”
Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight said, “The MWBE Forum is where New York’s MWBE community and our state’s major decision-makers meet to create opportunity. Every year, this event drives real connections, real contracts, and real results for MWBEs. The 2025 theme reminds us that the dreams fueling our entrepreneurs today are shaping a stronger, more inclusive economy for everyone.”
ESD Division of Minority- and Women-Owned Business Enterprise Development Executive Director Jason Clark said, “The story of the MWBE entrepreneur is the story of America. It involves hard work, innovation and a dogged refusal to give up. New York State's commitment to our minority and women-owned businesses has never been stronger, and never more resolute. This year’s Forum is a celebration of what makes New York’s MWBE community a great one.”