PWC holds technical assistance workshop Sept. 18

Real Estate Weekly, Oct 16, 2002

"Landing a contract for a government funded project can be a major step in helping to launch a woman or minority-owned start-up business. Because public agencies are required to invite the participation of WBEs and/or MBEs, becoming certified gives you a distinct advantage in bidding," said Professional Women in Construction (PWC) president Lenore Janis at the organization's third W/MBE Technical Assistance Workshop held the morning of Sept. 18 at The Mechanics Institute in New York City.

PWC director of business development Gwendolyn Colbert-Kushner, the workshop's originator and leader, noted that certification can help in obtaining private work as well because "almost every large corporation has a supplier diversity program. Private companies rely on government certification to document that the business is truly woman or minority owned."

The workshop was offered free of charge to current and prospective W/MBEs as well as LBEs (locally-based) and DBEs (disadvantaged) "because helping populations that have historically been minorities in the business community is part of the mission of PWC," said Janis. It was followed by an Opportunity Fair with display tables which offered participants a chance to interact with representatives from government agencies, major construction companies, utilities, financial institutions and other businesses.

Colbert-Kushner began her detailed, step-by-step presentation by explaining that while each. agency requires its own certification, information is shared. "Be sure that the data you include is the same for all," she advised.

Stressing the need to "do it right the first time," and avoid costly and time-consuming rejections, Colbert-Kushner then urged all to get help from an accountant or lawyer.

Applicants must be able to prove control by the target population (women or minorities). The business must be owned (at least 51%) and operated by the target population, and the control must be real, substantial, continuing and independent. To further establish independence from any other business, the applicant must present a detailed history of the company and offer full financial disclosure on inheritance, gifts and capital contributions. Finally, the owner must be able to demonstrate expertise in and/or knowledge of the skill or service performed by the company.

Colbert-Kushner also noted that certification expires after two to five years and owners must apply for recertification.

In conclusion, she advised all that despite hurdles becoming certified is "well worth the effort. Many companies have grown and flourished through this process."

Priscilla J. Triolo, esq., a partner with Peckar & Abramson and PWC's general counsel, advised the audience that "this can be done -- just remember to stay aware and stay on focused."

The program was well received. Antonio Ocasio of Excel Security, said, "The information was extremely practical and useful. These were two and a half hours of value added time!"

Andrea Strong, operations manager with Turtle & Hughes and a newly elected PWC board member, said, "This offered a very informative, realistic picture of the process. Certification, communication and validation are the three keys for a successful business."

Those considering certification gave the workshop high marks. Marylou Berk, owner of M & L Realty and Management Company, found it "extremely informative and right on the mark."

Rosanne Hughes, president of Colonial Art Decorators, said "the advice about outlining the company's history was especially helpful."

Tanya Younger, whose brother owns Drumriver Industries, a construction management company, said that she will work with him on applying for certification as a MBE. "I believe I'm capable of the process," she said.

Companies and agencies found the program an asset to their outreach efforts. Ninette Dafnos, vice president and branch manager with Atlantic Bank, said that the morning gave her an appreciation of the complexities of obtaining certification. Dominick Tesoriero, also with Atlantic, found it useful in dealing with small business clients. "We're a community bank. We work hands-on, helping businesses get through the day," he said.

Elizabeth Adams, assistant project manager with Tishman Realty & Construction, was glad to have the opportunity to meet W/MBEs since she is working on a project where the client, an arts company, has requested 25% minority participation.