About this Event
Join us for the Upstate NY MWBE Conference 2027, a premier gathering that empowers Minority and Women-Owned Business Enterprises (MWBEs), fosters innovation, builds meaningful connections, and drives sustainable business growth across Upstate New York. This conference will be held April 5-7, 2027 at the Joseph A. Floreano Rochester Riverside Convention Center.
Hosted by the City of Rochester, the 5th Annual Upstate NY MWBE Conference brings together entrepreneurs, business leaders, government agencies, contractors, industry experts, and resource partners from throughout the Finger Lakes, Western New York, Central New York, Southern Tier, and beyond.
Building on the success of previous conferences, this signature event continues to provide a platform where opportunities are created, partnerships are formed, and businesses gain practical strategies for long-term success.
Our 2027 Theme is:
Empower. Innovate. Connect. Grow: A Pathway to Prosperity!
This year's theme reflects the critical drivers of economic advancement in today's rapidly evolving business landscape:
- Empower businesses with knowledge, resources, and access to opportunities.
- Innovate through emerging technologies, creative problem-solving, and forward-thinking strategies.
- Connect with decision-makers, contractors, agencies, and fellow entrepreneurs.
- Grow capacity, revenue, partnerships, and impact while building a pathway to lasting prosperity.
Whether you are seeking certification guidance, contract opportunities, strategic partnerships, business capital, or resources to scale your operations, the Upstate NY MWBE Conference is designed to help you move your business forward.
Be part of Upstate New York's premier MWBE business conference and help shape the future of economic inclusion, innovation, and prosperity. Don’t miss this great opportunity!
Register, Exhibit, or Sponsor Now
Position your organization at the center of one of the region's leading MWBE business development events.
- Secure your seat. Expand your opportunities. Accelerate your growth.
- Connect with leaders, agencies, contractors, and entrepreneurs shaping tomorrow's economy.
- Transform relationships into partnerships and opportunities into prosperity.
Why Attend the Upstate NY MWBE Conference?
The Upstate NY MWBE Conference is more than an event. It is a catalyst for business success and economic mobility.
Connect with Decision-Makers
Meet procurement professionals, government agencies, prime contractors, developers, and industry leaders actively seeking qualified MWBE partners.
Discover New Opportunities
Learn about upcoming projects, supplier diversity initiatives, public and private sector contracting opportunities, and business development resources.
Embrace Innovation
Explore emerging business trends, technology solutions, artificial intelligence, digital transformation strategies, and innovative approaches that drive competitiveness in today's marketplace.
Build Capacity for Growth
Gain practical insights on certification, capital access, bonding, business development, operations, workforce development, and scaling strategies.
Expand Your Network
Develop valuable relationships with MWBE firms, corporate partners, community organizations, investors, and industry experts from across the region.
Celebrate Excellence and Impact
Recognize outstanding MWBE businesses and leaders who are driving innovation, economic growth, and community impact throughout Upstate New York.
Featured Keynote Speakers
Coming Soon
Stay tuned for announcements regarding our distinguished keynote speakers who will share insights on leadership, innovation, entrepreneurship, economic development, and building pathways to prosperity.
Workshop Sessions
Coming Soon
The 2027 conference will feature engaging workshops and panel discussions covering topics such as:
- Business Growth and Scaling Strategies
- Supplier Diversity and Procurement Opportunities
- Access to Capital and Financial Readiness
- Artificial Intelligence and Emerging Technologies
- Government Contracting and Certification
- Strategic Partnerships and Joint Ventures
- Workforce Development and Talent Retention
- Marketing, Branding, and Business Development
- Leadership and Entrepreneurial Success
A full workshop agenda will be announced soon.
Who Should Attend the Upstate NY MWBE Conference?
- Certified and uncertified MBE and WBE businesses
- Small business owners and entrepreneurs
- Prime contractors and subcontractors
- Government agencies and authorities
- Corporate supplier diversity professionals
- Economic development organizations
- Chambers of commerce and business associations
- Community and nonprofit organizations
- Financial institutions and capital providers
- Industry leaders, innovators, and resource partners
Join Us on the Pathway to Prosperity
The 2027 Upstate NY MWBE Conference is where empowerment meets opportunity, innovation sparks growth, and meaningful connections create lasting success.
Empower. Innovate. Connect. Grow: A Pathway to Prosperity!
Together, let's build a stronger, more inclusive, and more prosperous future for MWBEs across Upstate New York.
Purchase Your Ticket Now!
Agenda
🕑: 01:00 PM - 08:00 PM
Day 1 – Empower | April 5, 2027 (Dinner included)
Info: “Under Construction” Workforce Development Session: A hands-on workshop connecting skilled trades programs, trainees, contractors, and MWBE firms to support growth and capacity building. Location: Rochester Riverside Convention Center.
• Experience an Interactive Learning Session & Workshop, Rochester City Hall Lunch provided.
• Evening Events
• Jazz Reception
• Awards Dinner & Guest Keynote Speaker
• Recognition of outstanding MBE and WBE companies from each Upstate region
🕑: 07:30 AM - 04:00 PM
Day 2 – Innovate | April 6, 2027 (Breakfast and Lunch are included)
Info: Interactive Training Sessions (Four Tracks): Learn from industry experts on:
• MWBE and industry certifications
• Access to capital and funding opportunities
• Back-office operations and systems
• Capacity building and business scaling
• Bonding and surety
• Marketing your capabilities
• Strategic partnerships and joint ventures
🕑: 07:30 AM - 04:00 PM
Day 3 – Connect & Grow | April 7, 2027 (Breakfast and Lunch are included)
Info: Opportunities, Panels & Expo:
• Agency presentations on upcoming projects and procurement opportunities
• Success stories from certified MWBE firms
• Panel discussions with live Q&A
• Large-scale Expo featuring NYS agencies and community organizations offering:
• Project opportunities
• Funding resources
• Technical assistance
• Business development support
Event venue & nearby stays
Joseph A. Floreano Rochester Riverside Convention Center, 123 E Main St, Rochester, United States
Concerts, fests, parties, meetups — all the happenings, one place.