Westchester County Awards $250M in Contracts to MWBEs

Westchester County Executive George Latimer proudly announced a significant milestone in economic empowerment: the Minority and Women-owned Business Enterprises (MWBE) Program has successfully awarded over $250 million in contracts to registered minority and women-owned businesses over the last five years.

The MWBE Program connects minority and women-owned companies with county agencies, contract opportunities, and free workshops and training. Latimer noted the significance of this accomplishment, saying, "This achievement reflects our commitment to creating an inclusive and thriving economic landscape."

The MWBE Program, relaunched in 2018 with advice from a Task Force Committee, seeks to promote the growth and sustainability of firms run by historically disadvantaged entrepreneurs. Over 150 new MWBE firms have enrolled with the Westchester County MWBE Program as of 2023.

Joan McDonald, Westchester County Director of Operations, emphasized the program's strategic support as a driver of innovation and good transformation in the community. Bridget Gibbons, Director of the Westchester County Office of Economic Development, emphasized the program's importance in promoting economic growth and empowering diverse businesses.

The MWBE Program provides various benefits to minority- and women-owned companies, including prominence in the County's online database, access to contract opportunities, and invitations to conferences and seminars designed to help them succeed.

Martha Lopez, Director of Minority and Women-Owned Business Development, stressed the program's commitment to assisting underrepresented businesses and encouraged qualifying firms to take use of available contracts and resources.

As Westchester County prioritizes diversity and economic inclusion, the MWBE Program serves as a beacon of opportunity for minority and women-owned companies seeking to thrive in the local economy.