During New York State’s 10th Annual MWBE Forum, Governor Andrew M. Cuomo announced the utilization rate for NY State MWBEs had increased to 29.51 percent. This means that NY state has nearly reached the goal of 30 percent set out in 2014. 

During the 2019-20 fiscal year, $3.14 billion in contracts were awarded to Minority- and Women-Owned businesses, one of the highest rates in the nation. The news also marks the first time New York State has awarded more than $3 billion to M/WBEs.

This was achieved through direct outreach to businesses and through business development projects that assisted businesses with gaining contracts. 

"New York's greatest strength is our diversity and we are committed to breaking down any barriers which have not only prevented us from reaching our full potential, but those that have allowed an uneven playing field to exist in the first place," Governor Cuomo said.

For full press release: https://www.governor.ny.gov/news/governor-cuomo-announces-statewide-minority-and-women-owned-business-enterprise-utilization-2