Minority Business Enterprise Certification Program Expands

The AEDC announced the expansion of the Minority Business Enterprise Program to include women-owned businesses. The programs are now known as Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) and Women-Owned Business Enterprise (WBE).

“We’re in an exciting time in Arkansas as it grows,” said Mike Preston, executive director of AEDC. “If we can assist these businesses, we’re making our economy that much stronger.”

WBEs, along with MBEs, will help businesses compete for state contracts while ensuring state agencies meet diversity spending targets. Before the latest legislative session, Arkansas was one of six states that did not include women in similar certifications.

– Maeghen Carter, Ghidotti Communications