One way that small businesses can really take their enterprises to the next level is to land a government business contract. It's where the big money is, but it is very hard for small businesses to obtain, especially those owned by women and minorities. But NYC Mayor Bill de Blasio has their backs with money and programs that will help women- and minority-owned businesses get city contracts.
Mayor Bill de Blasio's program
In 2013, de Blasio clearly showed his support for women- and minority-owned businesses (M/WBEs) by spending $690 million on contracts with these small businesses. But he didn't stop there. Now NYC Mayor Bill de Blasio has introduced a new online portal that will help M/WBEs obtain certification online.
The program is being offered by NYC's Department of Small Business Services. As the agency commissioner Maria Torres-Springer stated, "the goal here is to ensure that the city's purchasing reflects the great diversity of business owners in New York City."
Who qualifies for the program?
M/WBE small companies are eligible. To be eligible, they must be at least 51 percent owned and operated by minorities or women. Through the new portal, qualifying companies can register to become certified as M/WBEs. Certification is important in order to place M/WBEs in a stronger position to bid on and perform city contracts.
For more details, visit www.nyc.gov/html/sbs/html/procurement/mwbe.shtml
