The 2026 Minority and Women-owned Business Enterprise (MWBE) Regional Opportunities Expo, held at the Javits Center, brought together New York State agencies, prime contractors, and thousands of small businesses to explore contracting opportunities. According to Chamber News, the event aimed to strengthen New York's economy by facilitating meaningful connections for MWBE firms.
Empire State Development President, CEO, and Commissioner Hope Knight delivered the keynote address, underscoring the importance of the Expo in bolstering the state's economic framework. "New York’s MWBE community is a driving force behind our state’s economy," Knight stated. "The Regional Opportunities Expo is designed to help these businesses make meaningful connections, compete for state contracts, and access the resources they need to grow." This initiative is part of a broader strategy to create new pathways for small businesses to thrive, contributing to a more inclusive economic landscape.
Prominent figures from New York City's MWBE community, including Mark Jaffe, Dilip Chauhan, and Michael Garner from the NYC Mayor’s Office of Minority and Women-Owned Business Enterprises, attended the event. Jaffe highlighted the strength and diversity of the membership, expressing pride in collaborating with various ethnic chambers.
The Expo's focus on networking and resource access aligns with New York's ongoing efforts to support economic development and inclusivity. By bringing together a diverse array of stakeholders, the event aims to provide MWBE firms with the tools necessary to compete effectively for state contracts.