Nassau County M/WBE Program

The program summary on this page was last updated on 07/12/2018. If any of the information or links are out-of-date, please contact us.

Nassau County has a minority and women-owned businesses (MBE/WBE) certification process that is separate from the state's Minority and Women's Business Development (DMWBD) certification program.

However, companies that are certified as an MBE or WBE by the DMWBD, Metropolitan Transportation Authority, New York City School Construction Authority, New York City Department of Small Business Services, or the New York/New Jersey Port Authority are eligible to apply for expedited certification through the county's short form. All other companies applying for Nassau County MBE or WBE certification must complete the long form.

With Nassau County MBE or WBE certification, firms are at an advantage when bidding on County contracts, whether as a prime contractor or subcontractor, have greater access to loan and bonding programs, and technical assistance programs.

Does this local/state program offer reciprocal certifications with other local/state programs? Nassau County defines the DMWBD, the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA), the New York City School Construction Authority (SCA), the New York City Department of Small Business Services, and the New York/New Jersey Port Authority as "Comparable Jurisdictions" for certification reciprocity purposes.

Does this program require bidders attempt to make a good-faith effort to meet participation goals? Nassau County specifies the criteria for a bidder to make a required good-faith effort on a project with participation goals at https://www.nassaucountyny.gov/DocumentCenter/View/18015.