The New York SBDC provides services to strengthen the small business community and promote economic growth throughout the state. The SBDC offers services to all small business populations, including special emphasis groups such as women, minorities, and Native Americans. Also, firms in all stages, veterans and service-connected disabled veterans, reservists called to active duty, people with disabilities, individuals currently and formerly receiving public assistance, individuals in low and moderate-income urban and rural areas, and individuals located in Empowerment Zones and HUB Zones. The US Small Business Administration has several programs to assist small businesses. SBA’s goal with the minority business certification programs is to teach small companies how to compete in the Federal contracting arena and take advantage of more significant subcontracting opportunities available from large firms as the result of public-private partnerships.
Minority & Women Business Enterprise Certification
Small businesses with Women Business certification will be able to take advantage of opportunities that level the playing field within the private and public sectors. With accreditation, minority, and women-owned firms capable of producing quality products and services at competitive prices have a more competitive position and generate more opportunities to bid for the business. This program will give access to:
● Access to Capital – Access to ESD and other financial assistance for established businesses, leveraging capital to achieve the best results at a lower cost; and low-cost financial aid for minority and women-owned businesses unable to access traditional financial services.
● Minority and Women-Owned Business Certification – administers offer lists of New York State MWBD firms to interested prime contractors to use in realizing subcontracting goals.
● Minority and Women-Owned Procurement Assistance – offers guidance on specialized selling opportunities to state and federal government agencies.
How does a business apply to participate in the 8(a) program? Contact the local SBA district office in your area. An SBA representative will answer general questions over the telephone. Some district offices may also have 8(a) orientation workshops to provide additional information regarding the eligibility requirements and various SBA forms.
What are the basic requirements an 8(a) applicant firm must meet? The firm applying to the program must be a small business; must be unconditionally owned and controlled by one or more socially and economically disadvantaged individuals who are of good character and citizens of the United States, and must demonstrate the potential for success.
Learn more about 8(a) Business Development Program here.
