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
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