MWBE Business Growth Accelerator Program

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Overview

The Empire State Development's Division of Minority and Women's Business Development (DMWBD) mission is to promote equality of economic opportunities for Minority and Women-owned Business Enterprises (MWBEs) and to eliminate barriers to their participation in state contracts. To support MWBEs' economic contribution and employment offerings in New York State, the Division launched the Business Growth Accelerator program (BGA) in 2017. 

The program aims to strengthen MWBEs’ operational capacity and provide resources for growth and sustainability.

The BGA program has a proven track record of success, with past participants achieving significant milestones:

  BGA 1.0 Program BGA 2.0 Program
Objective From 2017 to 2019, the first edition of the BGA 1.0 program provided intensive technical assistance and business development training to over 50 MWBEs, enhancing their capacity in areas such as credit, marketing, and business growth. Building on the success of BGA 1.0, the second edition (BGA 2.0) focused on increasing MWBEs' capacity to secure high-value contracts as primes and sub-contractors in construction and construction-related trades.
Outcomes

The program resulted in:

  • 52 MWBE firms trained
  • 30 to 50 hours of counseling sessions and business academic seminars
  • 28 firms with credit growth
  • 58 contracts obtained
  • 149 new employees hired

Significant revenue changes and business expansions.

To date, BGA 2.0 has supported:

  • 73 MWBE firms
  • Resulting in over $78+ million in contract value secured
  • 102 jobs created
  • 100+ contract awards
  • 200+ hours of business development training

Numerous success stories, including substantial contracts for participants.
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Objective

The latest iteration, BGA 3.0, aims to further enhance MWBEs' operational and development capacity, focusing on construction services, construction consulting, and semiconductor fab construction trades. The program is designed to drive economic growth, job creation, and increased MWBE participation in high-growth industries across New York State. This comprehensive initiative offers a unique opportunity for both MWBEs and business Incubators to thrive.

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For MWBEs

Goal

Gain the technical assistance, knowledge and connections to successfully compete for public and private contract opportunities.

Benefits for Participating MWBEs

  • Comprehensive Training: Receive expert training in business administration, procurement, financial management, marketing, and more. 
  • Individualized Support: Benefit from one-on-one mentoring and technical assistance tailored to your specific needs. 
  • Networking & Matchmaking Opportunities: Connect with potential clients, partners, project owners, and mentors at exclusive events. 
  • Access to Resources: Gain access to funding opportunities, industry experts, and other valuable resources. 
  • Business Growth Plan: Develop a customized roadmap for your business's growth journey. 

Eligibility Requirements for MWBEs

  • Industry Focus: Must be a construction service firm, construction consulting firm, or firm in semiconductor fab construction trades.
  • Certification: Must be a currently certified NYS MBE, WBE, or MWBE.
  • Business Tenure: Must be in business for at least two years.
  • Staffing: Must have at least two employees.
  • Revenue: Demonstrate annual revenues between $500,000 and $5 million during the most recent year.
  • Location: Business must be located in the Incubator region.

How MWBEs Can Apply for the BGA 3.0 Program

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Program Structure

BGA 3.0 program structure is designed to be dynamic, responsive, and comprehensive to the multifaceted needs of MWBEs across the state.

  • Structured Program: An 18-month program with:
    • 3 months of MWBE outreach, identification, and recruitment and curriculum planning and design
    • 8 months of intensive curriculum training
    • 4 months of post-curriculum training and one-on-one coaching and technical assistance
    • 3 months of post-graduation assistance
  • Tailored Training: Customized training modules on business administration, procurement processes, financial competency, marketing, and more.
  • Immersive Training: A comprehensive program providing a mix of workshops, one-on-one mentoring, networking, and partnerships
  • Holistic Support: Ongoing mentoring, coaching, technical assistance, and networking opportunities.
  • Regional Focus: Covering various New York State economic development regions to maximize local impact.
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Contact

Join us in accelerating the growth and success of MWBEs across New York State!

Together, we can build a stronger and more equitable economy for all New Yorkers.

Contact Information: For further inquiries, contact the Customer Care Unit at 212-803-2414 or email [email protected]