Frustration Over M/WBE Certification

New York City Councilwoman Julie Wong voiced her concerns on Tuesday regarding the advantages that some white women gain from the Minority and Women-Owned Business Enterprise (M/WBE) certification program.

This initiative is designed to assist minority and/or women entrepreneurs in obtaining government contracts and expanding their businesses. During a meeting, Wong challenged First Deputy Chief Business Diversity Officer Dwight Flynn to reconsider the qualifications for minority certifications.

“Currently, there are 11,382 companies certified,” she noted. “That’s simply not enough for a city with a $118 billion budget. A substantial portion of that budget goes towards contracts. Unfortunately, our tax dollars seem to be flowing back into the hands of white individuals,” Wong explained.

“While all M/WBEs are required to be certified, it’s troubling that there are 26% more non-minority white women’s businesses than there are certified businesses owned by Asian, Hispanic, and Native American individuals,” she continued. “We need to see an increase in certifications so that not only white women benefit but also people of color.”

The M/WBE certification is meant to enhance a company’s visibility to city agencies and private contractors looking for goods and services. Certified businesses are also featured in the NYC Online Directory of Certified Businesses, which acts as a public promotion platform.

Moreover, those companies gain access to networking opportunities, tailored courses, and specialized conferences. To become certified, businesses must be predominantly owned, operated, or controlled by U.S. citizens or permanent residents who are women or belong to specific minority groups.