Certification Intake Form

MBE: Certification stands for Minority Business Enterprise certification. It is a designation given to businesses that are at least 51% owned, operated, and controlled by minority group members. These group members typically include individuals who are African American, Hispanic American, Asian American, or Native American. The certification is used to help minority-owned businesses gain access to corporate and government contracts, as it demonstrates their status as a minority enterprise, making them eligible for certain set-aside programs and diverse supplier relationships. This can lead to increased business opportunities and networking within specific markets.

WBE: Certification stands for Women and Minority Business Enterprise certification. It is awarded to businesses that are at least 51% owned, managed, and controlled by women and/or minority group members. The purpose of this certification is to promote diversity and inclusion in the business world by allowing these enterprises better access to corporate and government contracting opportunities. Organizations or government agencies often have diversity goals or set-aside programs, and WMBE-certified businesses can significantly benefit from these initiatives. This certification can help enhance visibility, increase business opportunities, and foster partnerships with companies looking to diversify their supplier base.

SBE: Certification stands for Small Business Enterprise certification. It is designed for businesses that meet specific size standards, often based on the number of employees and annual revenue, as defined by the certifying body or government agency. The goal of SBE certification is to support the growth and development of small businesses by providing them access to opportunities that might otherwise be dominated by larger corporations. With this certification, small businesses can become eligible for set-aside programs, receive preferential consideration in contracting, and gain increased visibility in competitive markets. This helps level the playing field, allowing small businesses to compete more effectively for contracts and partnerships with larger entities and government agencies.

WOSB: The Women-Owned Small Business (WOSB) Certification is a government program designed to promote the growth of small businesses owned and operated by women. This certification enables eligible businesses to compete for federal contracts specifically set aside for women-owned businesses, helping to increase their visibility and opportunities in the marketplace. To qualify, a business must be at least 51% owned, controlled, and operated by one or more women. Obtaining this certification can enhance a business's credibility, networking opportunities, and access to federal and private sector contracting programs aimed at supporting women entrepreneurs.

DBE: The Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) Certification is a program aimed at promoting equal opportunities for small businesses owned by socially and economically disadvantaged individuals, including those owned by women, minorities, and disabled persons. This certification allows eligible businesses to participate in federally funded projects, particularly in the transportation sector, where a certain percentage of contracts are set aside specifically for DBEs. To obtain DBE certification, a business must meet specific criteria related to ownership, control, and income levels. Achieving DBE certification can provide valuable advantages, including increased access to contracting opportunities, resources for business development, and assistance from government agencies and prime contractors in navigating the competitive landscape.