As the first Under Secretary at the Department of Commerce for Minority Business Development, Donald “Don” R. Cravins, Jr. has been tasked with revitalizing the Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA), the agency dedicated to empowering and growing the 10 million minority-owned businesses across the country. The elevated role of the MBDA was mandated by provisions of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which provides the U.S. Department of Commerce with new resources to level the playing field and improve access to capital, contracts, and connections that minority-owned businesses need to grow and contribute to the economy.
I recently had the opportunity to speak with Under Secretary Cravins on what he’s done since taking office and his goals for the agency. Below is our discussion.
Rhett Buttle: Can you describe the Minority Business Development Agency’s (MBDA) mission?
Under Secretary Cravins: The mission of the MBDA is to promote the growth and global competitiveness of minority-owned businesses through the mobilization and advancement of public and private sector programs, policy, and research.
MBDA plays a unique role in our government. We are the only federal agency solely dedicated to the growth and global competitiveness of minority-owned businesses. For 54 years, a key way MBDA has carried out its mission is through its National Network of 88 Business Centers and grants programs across 36 states and territories. Our National Network is a resource for minority-owned businesses to receive technical assistance and business development services. If you are a minority entrepreneur, MBDA is your agency. It’s our job to help you get your foot in the door.
In 1969, MBDA was created by Executive Order under President Nixon. An Executive Order is not law. So for fifty-three years, MBDA existed as a temporary Agency with limited resources and influence. The Agency’s existence was always uncertain from year to year and President to President.
Original source can be found here
