M/WBE Program - Frequently Asked Questions

What is NYCHA’s current M/WBE policy?

For Large Contracts ($250K and above)

NYCHA goods and services contracts include a 30% M/WBE subcontracting goal, with 15% of the total contract value subcontracted to MBE(s) and 15% to WBE(s).

If the contract is awarded to a vendor that is both MBE- and WBE-certified, the vendor must choose one certification for the contract and then subcontract 15% of the total contract value to a firm with the certification that the vendor did not choose (i.e., if a vendor chooses the MBE certification, they must subcontract 15% to a WBE).

NYCHA development projects include 25% of the total contract value to be subcontracted to M/WBE(s).

NYCHA is implementing the M/WBE Program via a phased rollout, starting with select procurements over $250,000. We will continue to provide regular updates on upcoming contracting opportunities in the coming months.

Micro Purchases (up to $10K) & Small Procurements (below $250K)

Currently, utilization goals do not apply to micro purchases and small procurements, but we will continue to provide regular updates on NYCHA’s M/WBE Program and contracting opportunities for micro purchases and small procurements in the coming months.

How can I access contracting opportunities with NYCHA?

To participate in NYCHA's procurement opportunities and download bid documents, M/WBEs must register with iSupplier, NYCHA's free online procurement portal. For registration information, visit iSupplier Registration. NYCHA also encourages M/WBEs to register with the City Record to learn about procurement opportunities with NYCHA.

How can I participate in NYCHA’s M/WBE Program?

NYCHA’s M/WBE Program is being rolled out in phases. NYCHA goods and services contracts include a 30% M/WBE subcontracting goal, with 15% of the total contract value subcontracted to MBE(s) and 15% to WBE(s). We will continue to provide regular updates on NYCHA’s M/WBE Program and contracting opportunities in the coming months.

We strongly recommend M/WBEs attend pre-bid conferences for solicitations relevant to their capabilities to network with potential respondents. We also encourage them to attend M/WBE outreach events throughout the city to expand networking opportunities.

How can I become a NYCHA-certified M/WBE? Or which certifications does NYCHA accept to be considered an M/WBE vendor?

NYCHA does not have its own M/WBE certification process. The Authority determines the eligibility of M/WBEs by utilizing New York City's Small Business Services M/WBE certification. To learn more about what is considered an M/WBE business or to become a certified M/WBE, please visit NYC Small Business Services.

Where is the Utilization Plan form located and how should it be submitted?

The M/WBE Utilization Plan form is part of the solicitation package. Respondents are required to complete and submit an M/WBE Utilization Plan as part of the bid/proposal submission and provide detailed information on M/WBE subcontractors to meet contract utilization requirements.

We strongly recommend M/WBEs attend pre-bid conferences for solicitations relevant to their capabilities to network with potential respondents. We also encourage them to attend M/WBE outreach events throughout the city to expand networking opportunities.

We will continue to provide regular updates on NYCHA’s M/WBE Program and contracting opportunities in the coming months.

Can a vendor request a waiver or partial waiver of M/WBE utilization goal requirements?

Waivers or partial waivers may be granted during the timeframe specified within the solicitation and upon sufficient demonstration for need of a waiver as outlined in the Application for Waiver/Partial Waiver of M/WBE Utilization Plan form. The NYCHA Application for Waiver/Partial Waiver of M/WBE Utilization Plan form is included in the solicitation package.

How can vendors get more information about NYCHA’s M/WBE Program?

For more information about NYCHA’s M/WBE Program, please visit our website. We will be updating the website regularly as our M/WBE Program expands with announcements and resources for our vendor community.

Does the NYCHA M/WBE policy apply to developers/sponsors?

NYCHA requires 25% M/WBE utilizations on development projects. Currently, NYCHA is rolling out M/WBE utilization requirements via a phased approach. We will continue to provide regular updates on NYCHA’s M/WBE Program and contracting opportunities in the coming months.

If a vendor is both Minority- and Women-Owned, can it qualify for both categories?

If the contract is awarded to a vendor that is both MBE- and WBE-certified, the vendor must choose one certification for the contract and then subcontract 15% of the total contract value to a firm with the certification that the vendor did not choose (e.g., if a vendor chooses the MBE certification, they must subcontract 15% to a WBE).

Where can I find a list of certified M/WBEs?

Please visit NYC Small Business Services for a directory of NYC-certified M/WBE businesses. The directory allows you to search certified M/WBEs across the New York City area (as well as tailor your search for your specific needs) and access vendor contact information.

For additional information on how to navigate the SBS website, please refer to our Navigation Guide for the SBS Online Directory of M/WBE-Certified Businesses.