Empire State Development (ESD), New York’s chief economic development agency, has announced the 2026 New York State Minority and Women-Owned Business Enterprise (MWBE) Regional Opportunities Expo. The event, announced on July 1, 2026, is designed to connect MWBE-certified firms with procurement opportunities across state agencies, authorities, and private sector partners.
According to Empire State Development, the expo is part of New York’s broader MWBE program, which aims to increase the participation of minority and women-owned businesses in state contracting. New York’s MWBE program is one of the largest and most established in the United States, with billions in state contracts directed to certified firms annually.
The expo will feature matchmaking sessions between MWBE firms and procurement officers, workshops on certification and capacity building, and panel discussions on navigating the state contracting process. The event is part of a series of regional expos designed to ensure that businesses across all parts of the state have access to contracting opportunities.
New York’s MWBE program has been a model for other states seeking to diversify their supplier base and promote equitable economic growth. The program covers a range of industries including construction, professional services, information technology, and commodities.
As noted by Google News, the 2026 expo comes at a time when small business diversity programs are facing increased scrutiny nationally. New York has reaffirmed its commitment to the MWBE program, with state officials emphasizing the economic benefits of inclusive procurement practices.
The expo is expected to draw hundreds of businesses from across New York State, with regional events planned for New York City, the Hudson Valley, and Western New York. ESD has indicated that the events will also provide updates on program changes and new certification pathways designed to streamline the process for applicants.
