MTA Edge Tier 1

MTA EDGE is the Metropolitan Transportation Authority’s small business development program, designed to increase participation and expand access to public contracting opportunities for qualified small firms. 

Tier 1 of the MTA EDGE program provides a supportive, structured framework for emerging firms to develop within the construction industry and begin building long-term relationships with the MTA. The program helps businesses prepare to perform safely, reliably, and competitively on MTA construction projects. 

EDGE Tier 1 is a five-year program delivered in partnership with the McKissack–WSP Joint Venture. Participants receive targeted training, technical assistance, and access to work opportunities. 

What Tier 1 includes 

• Pre-qualification support
• Mandatory construction training 
• Professional and organizational skills development
• Hands-on construction and field expertise
• Access to working capital 
• Opportunity to work on MTA construction contracts (up to $1.5 million)
• Fast-track payment terms  

Eligibility criteria 

To be considered for MTA EDGE Tier 1, a business must have: 

• Average annual gross receipts of $6 million or less over the past three calendar years. 
• Demonstrated experience with completed commercial projects valued at $200,000 or more. 
• Business ownership with a net worth not exceeding $15 million (excluding primary residence). 
• A minimum of one year in operation.  

To begin, submit an eligibility application for Tier 1. If accepted, you'll receive onboarding instructions to begin your training and mentorship track. 

What to expect after acceptance

1. Training and orientation  
   Participants begin with orientation and a series of required MTA-specific and business development courses to build management and field skills.  
2. Business assessment 
   Firms will be scheduled for a virtual or in-person business assessment with an EDGE project management and business development consultant.
3. Custom action plan 
   Based on the assessment, an individualized action plan will be created to guide your growth throughout the program. 

Once a firm has completed pre-qualification and is officially enrolled in the program, it becomes eligible to receive bid opportunities through the MTA EDGE. 

Work assignments depend on the availability of scopes and trades. Firms will be contacted by the MTA procurement team if they are listed as bidders for relevant opportunities, based on the information provided in their application. 

edge@mtahq.org