ECIDA Creates New MWBE Incentive
The Erie County Industrial Development Agency recently approved a new incentive for MWBE subcontractor utilization, known as the Economic Inclusion Program.
To qualify for the incentive, applicants must achieve a 30% MWBE utilization rate (25% MBE/5% WBE) in the construction phase of a project. Additionally, post-construction, applicants must meet a 30% M/W job creation requirement. Applicants must also commit to some post-project initiatives, including MWBE procurement practices, adopting a DEI policy, providing DEI training for staff, or providing mentorship for MWBE businesses.
Applicants who meet these criteria are eligible for larger and longer tax abatements through ECIDA (see chart below).
Although a heavy-handed MWBE mandate was initially discussed, the BNP successfully advocated for making this policy an opt-in incentive.
The full policy is available here. Businesses interested in learning how their DEI strategy can make them eligible for this incentive should contact the BNP’s Kenya Hobbs at khobbs@thepartnership.org.
Related Posts
11.8.21 Advocacy Alert: House Passes Bipartisan Infrastructure Bill
This weekend, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the bipartisan infrastructure bill, known as the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. The bill’s passing is a significant milestone after months of contentious negotiations.
The bill would invest in roads, bridges, water and wastewater systems, airports, broadband, and the electric grid.
BNP Advocacy Insider – November 2021
The November 2021 Advocacy Insider is a roundup of important issues we are monitoring that could you and your business.
11.4.21 COVID-19 Bulletin: OSHA Releases “Vax or Test” Rule: What You Need to Know
Yesterday, Governor Kathy Hochul announced she would repeal the state’s mask mandate, effective today. However, her announcement did not proactively address how the repeal coincided with the NY HERO Act, which would have required employees in most workplaces to continue masking.
10.22.21 Advocacy Alert: Hochul Signs Parolee Employment Legislation
Today, Governor Kathy Hochul signed S.2803/A.5707 into law. This legislation reduces barriers to employment for formerly incarcerated individuals.
Curfews are commonly included in probation or conditional discharge sentences. These restrictions can prevent the formerly incarcerated from working second- and third-shift jobs, limiting their job prospects.