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
CEOs Speak: A cautious rise in optimism
At our recent CEOs Speak event—the only forum in Buffalo Niagara showcasing the results from the annual Upstate New York Business Leader Survey—local leaders delivered a powerful message: optimism is cautiously rising, but government intervention remains a persistent obstacle to regional economic growth.
Legislative priorities: BNP’s reaction to the Executive Budget
On February 14, we set the stage for critical discussions about the future of New York State’s economy by convening regional business leaders and policymakers, along with BNP members, at the 1970 Club in KeyBank Center for our Legislative Luncheon.
2025 Advocacy Agenda: Shaping the future
On Jan 9, our signature Government Affairs event unveiled the strategies and priorities that will guide our work this year with policymakers.
Expert panel talks collaboration as key to tech hub future
Buffalo Niagara Partnership President & CEO Dottie Gallagher was a recent guest on M&T Bank’s CommunityLIVE to discuss the tech hub and what it means for the region moving forward.