New App Simplifies Procurement For MWBEs
Minority and Women-Owned Business Enterprise (MWBE) now have access to an app that will greatly help navigate procurement opportunities in NYC. The MWBE Connect NY app was created by Capalino + Company VPs Tunisha W. Walker and Safeena Mecklai to help alleviate the treacherous process of navigating bid contracts and make it easier for MWBEs to gain access to the $16 billion in awards over the next 10 years.
"One of the biggest issues facing MWBEs is an inability to find contracts that match their capabilities," said Tunisha W. Walker, Senior Vice President and head of the MWBE Consulting Group at Capalino + Company. "MWBEs spend hours searching various portals and agency sites for opportunities that match their business' services. They do not have a central location to go to that lists all available City and State RFPs in an easily searchable way. Instead they are forced to conduct a scattered search through multiple websites for opportunities to expand their business. For MWBEs, this current system can be overwhelming." Walker continued.
Of the app, Safeena Mecklai, Associate Vice President at Capalino + Company, adds "We wanted to make sure that MWBEs have the tools to find RFPs in a convenient way. We have heard the same story over and over again: it is hard to find contracts, MWBEs have to look to multiple sites for information, and the information is often presented in a confusing way. This process is to too time consuming for them. This app helps to alleviate that burden."
The MWBE Connect NY app connects users to RFPs and opportunities that match exactly their capabilities, desired geographic coverage and contract size. The app employs an RFP matching algorithm to align users with procurement opportunities in New York City and State, information about the certification process, and MWBE-specific events. Once users build a company profile based on how they self-identify their business (e.g. industry, capabilities, contract size, etc.) they receive a curated list of RFP matches rated by how well they align with the size, scope and abilities of their business. Subscribers may then use a contract engagement tool to begin the application submission process. The app is also a comprehensive information hub that provides users with resources regarding City and State MWBE legislation.
Through the use of the MWBE Connect NY app and Capalino + Company, Walker and Mecklai will help many MWBEs apply for bids that match their profile, making the process much easier and less stressful. It's a great tool to keep for on-the-go searching and RFP applications.
The MBWE Connect NY app is available for download now on the Apple Store and Google Play.