The Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development is accelerating efforts to promote and assist minority- and women-owned businesses (M/WBEs) through targeted initiatives, public outreach, and increased funding mechanisms.

A recent article summarizes seven key resources accessible to minority-owned firms in Pennsylvania. These usually consist of funding assistance programs like the Small Diverse Business Capital Access Program, as well as training and networking initiatives that focus on reducing entry points for entrepreneurs of color. 

The Pennsylvania Minority Business Development Authority also remains committed to providing low-interest loans and strategic development assistance to qualified firms across the state.

The state has also released special guides for minority and women-owned firms that emphasizes programs with grant access, certification assistance, and business mentorship connections. These initiatives mirror Pennsylvania’s wider effort to close business ownership and access to state contracts based on gender and race. 

These efforts complement the state’s earlier policy initiatives to increase supplier diversity. Early in 2024, Pennsylvania invited public comment on proposed small, disadvantaged, veteran-owned and diverse business goals for public work participation.

As infrastructure investment continues throughout the state, such funds are designed to provide more equitable access for underrepresented business owners to participate in construction, procurement, and service contracting. The department is motivating businesses to seek out these tools and apply where they are qualified to benefit from the continued investment in inclusive economic development.