County MWBE contracting increased 85% in 2025 alone to $171 million in 2025
Westchester County has awarded more than $550 million dollars in contracts to Minority and Women-Owned Business Enterprises (MWBEs) since 2018, marking a significant milestone in the County’s continued efforts to expand opportunities for diverse businesses and strengthen the local economy. The milestone comes as the County recorded substantial year-over-year growth in MWBE contracting, with annual contract awards increasing by approximately 85% — from $92 million in 2024 to $171 million in 2025.
The increase represents nearly $79 million in additional MWBE contracts in a single year and reflects the County’s continued work to ensure that qualified minority and women-owned businesses have greater access to opportunities to compete for County contracts.
Jenkins said: “More than half a billion dollars in contracts awarded to minority and women-owned businesses represents more than a milestone — it represents real opportunities for businesses, entrepreneurs and families throughout Westchester. We have worked to expand access to County contracting, break down barriers and make sure that businesses of all sizes and backgrounds have an opportunity to compete. The 85% increase we saw in just one year demonstrates the progress we are making, and we remain committed to building on that momentum.”
The more than $550 million awarded since 2018 represents an investment in businesses that contribute to Westchester’s economic vitality while providing goods and services that support County operations and residents. As of 2026 there are over 2,500 MWBE businesses have registered with the Westchester County MWBE Program.
Deputy County Executive Joan McDonald said: “These numbers reflect our commitment to making Westchester a place where businesses of all backgrounds can grow and succeed. By expanding access to County contracts, we are creating opportunities for entrepreneurs who want to invest, build and do business here. This milestone reflects our progress and our continued commitment to strengthening Westchester’s economy and supporting the businesses that help our communities thrive.”
Westchester County Office of Economic Director Bridget Gibbons said: “Getting to this milestone is the result of sustained outreach and collaboration across County government and with our business community. We want minority and women-owned businesses to understand how to navigate the procurement process, identify opportunities and successfully compete for County business. The tremendous growth we saw from 2024 to 2025 shows that those efforts are producing measurable results.”
With MWBE contracting reaching $171 million in 2025, Westchester County will continue working to expand participation, strengthen relationships with the business community and create additional opportunities for minority and women entrepreneurs.
Director of Minority and Women-Owned Business Development Martha Lopez said: “When we expand opportunity, we strengthen Westchester’s entire economy. These contracts support businesses, create jobs and help build wealth in our communities. We are proud of how far we have come, but this milestone is also about where we go next. We will continue working to make Westchester a place where businesses have the opportunity to grow, compete and succeed.”
The benefits of registering as a MWBE include having your business listed in the County’s online database and having high visibility to County departments, contractors and anyone interested in doing business with MWBEs. MWBEs also receive notification of contract opportunities and special invitations to workshops, seminars and trainings that are meant to help small businesses succeed.
To learn more or to register as a Minority or Women-owned business in Westchester County visit: https://westchestercatalyst.com/
About The Westchester County Office of Economic Development
The Westchester County Office of Economic Development works to improve the County’s economic well-being and quality of life. This includes a broad range of activities to attract, create and retain jobs, and to foster a resilient, pro-growth and inclusive economy. For information, visit https://westchestercatalyst.com.