Powering Small Business Growth Through Mentor-Protégé Programs

In today’s competitive marketplace, small local businesses often struggle to navigate complex procurement processes at large institutions. Mentor-protégé programs have emerged as a powerful solution, creating structured pathways for these companies to build capacity and secure contracts.

The New York Power Authority’s mentor-protégé program offers valuable lessons for organizations looking to implement similar initiatives. Their approach centers on thoughtful matching between established contractors and small businesses, creating partnerships that deliver mutual benefits.

“We select mentors based on their scale and operability, typically from sectors involved in significant multi-billion dollar projects,” explains William Choi from NYPA. This careful pairing ensures mentors have relevant expertise to share with their protégés.

Successful mentor-protégé programs balance structure with flexibility. NYPA combines quarterly group gatherings featuring panels and discussions with regular one-on-one meetings between matched pairs. This dual approach provides consistent support while allowing relationships to develop organically around specific business needs.

NYPA tracks success through meaningful metrics: contracts awarded to protégés, payment amounts, and increased participation in competitive bidding. Perhaps most telling is that many partnerships continue long after the formal program concludes.

Mentor-protégé programs provide a structured approach to building capacity among small local businesses. By creating these pathways, institutions aren’t just checking a box—they’re fostering lasting partnerships that strengthen local economies and create opportunities for businesses traditionally excluded from major procurement opportunities. The result? A more resilient, innovative supply chain that better reflects and serves our diverse communities.

With funding from the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation, the Lab for Inclusive Entrepreneurship is conducting research on mentor-protégé programs in a variety of sectors. The results will inform procurement professionals across industries and educational institutions about effective strategies for implementing mentor-protégé programs that create sustainable partnerships and drive economic development in underserved communities. If you’re interested in learning more about this research project, please contact us at nl4ie@northeastern.edu.