Harrisburg, PA – Today, the Pennsylvania Department of General Services (DGS) proudly graduated the inaugural cohort of the Mentor Protégé Program (MPP)—a key initiative started under the Shapiro-Davis Administration to expand opportunities and access for small, small diverse, and veteran-owned businesses seeking to compete in the Commonwealth’s procurement process.
2024-2025 Mentor Protege Program Cohort with DGS Secretary Reggie McNeil and BDISBO Deputy Secretary Erica Patterson
The MPP, established under Governor Shapiro's Executive Order 2023-18, provides small business owners with one-on-one mentoring relationships with seasoned prime contractors. Mentors provide guidance, support, and valuable insights to help protégés improve their business management and contract bidding skills which could be useful in acquiring additional Commonwealth business.
“This program is a reflection of the Shapiro-Davis Administration’s commitment to economic equity and opportunity,” said DGS Secretary Reggie McNeil. “By investing in mentorship and creating space for small, small diverse and veteran-owned businesses to grow, we’re strengthening Pennsylvania’s economy and seeking to ensure that our procurement processes reflect the diversity and talent of our business community.”
This first cohort, focused on IT services, included 15 business participants who engaged in targeted programming on business development, procurement readiness, leadership, and strategic planning.
Lieutenant Governor Austin Davis participated in the ceremony with a special pre-recorded message, applauding the graduates and reaffirming the Shapiro-Davis Administration’s commitment to breaking down barriers for small, small diverse, and veteran-owned businesses.
“Small businesses are the backbone of our communities—and when we empower them, we uplift all of Pennsylvania,” said Lieutenant Governor Austin Davis. “This administration is committed to cutting red tape, reducing wait times, and creating real ladders of opportunity. Congratulations to the inaugural cohort of the Mentor Protégé Program for helping build a more inclusive and prosperous business ecosystem across the Commonwealth.”
The Mentor Protégé Program was designed to help businesses navigate the complexities of doing business with the Commonwealth, while cultivating lasting professional relationships and encouraging the long-term success of participants. The success of this inaugural cohort marks a significant milestone in the Commonwealth’s efforts to increase diverse participation in public contracting. Due to the success of this inaugural class, DGS is in the process of planning another cohort– building upon the Commonwealth’s efforts to increase diverse participation in public contracting.
More information about the Mentor Protégé Program is available online.
DGS Secretary Reggie McNeil
