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.Â
 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. Â
Applicants who meet these criteria are eligible for larger and longer tax abatements through ECIDA (see chart below). Â
Although a heavy-handed MWBE mandate was initially discussed, the BNP successfully advocated for making this policy an opt-in incentive.Â
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. Â
Related Posts
8.10.21 Advocacy Alert: Cuomo Resigns, Hochul to Assume Office
This afternoon, Governor Andrew Cuomo announced his impending resignation, effective in 14 days.
Cuomo’s resignation comes after the Attorney General’s report that detailed sexual assault and harassment allegations from eleven women. After the report, Cuomo received nearly unanimous calls to resign from lawmakers and Democratic party officials. The Assembly Judiciary Committee was also in the process of conducting an impeachment investigation.
8.10.21 Advocacy Alert: Senate Passes Bipartisan Infrastructure Bill
This morning, the U.S. Senate passed a bipartisan infrastructure bill that will spend $1.2 trillion in total, including $550 billion in new spending.
The bill passed 69-30, with all Democrats and 19 Republicans voting in favor.
8.4.21 Advocacy Alert: Biden Reverses Course, Extends Eviction Moratorium
On Tuesday night, the Biden administration issued a new eviction moratorium – a complete reversal from the President’s assertion this weekend that he lacked the authority to do so.
The new moratorium is in effect through October 3, going beyond New York State’s August 31 deadline. It extends the terms of the original moratorium: tenants cannot be evicted for nonpayment of rent.
BNP Advocacy Insider – August 2021
The August 2021 Advocacy Insider is a roundup of important issues we are monitoring that could you and your business.