New York State Sen. Joseph Griffo and Assemblywoman Marianne Buttenschon announced today that they will be hosting a Minority- and/or Women-owned Business Enterprise (MWBE) Informational Forum.

The forum, which is a proactive response to the needs and concerns voiced by small business owners across the region, will be held on Thursday, September 25, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the Utica State Office Building, 1st Floor Conference Room, 207 Genesee Street, Utica.

This event will be beneficial for:

Gina Hayduk, government contract coordinator with Mohawk Valley Small Business Development Center, and Leslie Becraft, senior certification analyst, Division of Minority and Women’s Business Development, will be on hand to offer more information on the MWBE program and provide attendees with tools for growth.

Space is limited. To register for the forum, email osilovskiya@nyassembly.gov or call 315-732-1055.

“I am pleased to partner with Assemblywoman Buttenschon, the Mohawk Valley Small Business Development Center and Division of Minority and Women’s Business Development to present this informative program about the state’s MWBE program,” Sen. Griffo said. “This event will provide participants with an opportunity to learn more about becoming MWBE certified and gain a better understanding of its benefits. I encourage interested parties to attend.”

“As Chair of the New York State Assembly Small Business Committee, I understand the vital role that all businesses play in the success of our communities,” Assemblywoman Buttenschon said. Minority- and women-owned businesses hold a particularly unique and impactful place in our region, and this forum offers an important opportunity for meaningful dialogue and support. I extend my sincere thanks to Senator Griffo, the Mohawk Valley Small Business Development Center, Division of Minority and Women’s Business Development, and our local Chambers of Commerce for helping make this possible.”