M/WBE Certification in Home Care: How It Opens Doors for Agencies and Workers
NYC mandates that a percentage of city contracts go to Minority and Women-Owned Business Enterprises. Here is what M/WBE means for home care agencies and the caregivers who work for them.
New York City's M/WBE program is one of the most aggressive supplier diversity programs in the country. Under Local Law 1 of 2013 (as amended), city agencies must meet participation goals across all procurement categories — including healthcare and human services.
What M/WBE Means
M/WBE stands for Minority and Women-Owned Business Enterprise. Certification is granted by NYC SBS (Small Business Services) or NYS ESD (Empire State Development) to firms that are at least 51% owned and controlled by minority or women entrepreneurs.
Why It Matters for Home Care
NYC DHS, DOHMH, ACS, and other agencies issue millions in contracts for home care, shelter services, and community health programs. M/WBE-certified agencies receive priority consideration and can access set-aside contracts that are not available to non-certified firms.
Impact on Workers
Agencies with active government contracts tend to offer more stable employment, W-2 positions with benefits, and higher pay rates than purely private-pay agencies. Government contract compliance also means regular audits — which translates to better working conditions and more transparent payroll practices.
Current M/WBE Contract Opportunities
As of Q1 2026, active RFPs from NYC agencies include warming center operations (DHS), home care staffing (DOHMH), and psychiatric staffing (OMH). Priority Groups is M/WBE certified and holds active contracts with multiple city agencies.
For Caregivers
When evaluating potential employers, ask whether the agency holds government contracts and is M/WBE certified. These factors are strong indicators of financial stability and commitment to fair employment practices.