Minority-, Women- and Locally-owned Business Enterprises

Promoting diversity is a central focus of every aspect of the University’s endeavors. At Facilities and Operations, we are committed to local hiring and diversity across all aspects of our work – including the businesses we contract with, the workforce of our construction contractors and vendors, and our own staff.

If you are part of a certified minority-owned or woman-owned firm, or a firm that is located in the Columbia local catchment area (see map below), and are interested in doing business with Columbia, contact our Office of Construction Business Initiatives at [email protected].

Need to become certified?  Review the list of certifying agencies that Columbia University recognizes for minority- and woman-owned business enterprise certification.

For construction firms or workers looking for an opportunity to be a part of construction at Manhattanville, please visit the Manhattanville Jobs and Opportunities website for current bid opportunities and contacts.

CERTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS

In order to participate in contracting opportunities as a minority and/or women business enterprise, firms must be able to demonstrate that they are certified minority- or woman-owned business.

Typically, certification by established governmental and quasi-governmental agencies is required. Columbia accepts certifications from the agencies listed below:

• New York Empire State Development
• New York Metropolitan Transit Authority
• New York School Construction Authority
• New York City Department of Small Business Services 
• Port Authority of New York/New Jersey
• Women's Business Enterprise National Council
• New York & New Jersey Minority Supplier Development Council
• Connecticut State Minority Business Enterprise
• New Jersey Minority/Women Certification (PDF)

In the event a firm is certified by an agency other than those listed above, the Office of Construction Business Initiatives may provide a waiver at its discretion.