About Certification

Certification can be a valuable tool to open the door to contracting with the government (federal, state and local) and large corporations. For small business owners who are veterans, service disabled veterans, minority, female and/or otherwise disadvantaged, there are a variety of certification programs to consider. For other small business owners that do not qualify for these special socio-economic certification programs, there are options to learn more about functional teaming arrangements that expand your opportunities. We believe strongly that teaming is an important key to open the door to contracting with the government (federal, state and local) and large corporations. Teaming unites complementary strengths and capabilities allowing small companies the ability to combine forces and increase their potential to perform on larger contracts.

Information

There are a variety of certification programs for women, minority and otherwise disadvantaged business owners to consider. Aside from the various programs offered in your local city, county and state, the following are some of the more prominent national programs available that CTS provides consultation services on.

SBA

SBA currently offers two main certification programs to assist Socially Disadvantaged and Economically Disadvantaged business owners. The 8(a) Business Development Program is a nine year program that provides a broader scope of assistance for companies that meet certain requirements.

The SBA also offers a certification program for businesses located in HUBZone areas and employing at least 35% of individuals that live in HUBZone areas. This program is designed to help develop urban and rural communities by stimulating the economy and providing jobs. The HUBZone program is another very beneficial program for businesses that are eligible.

The SBA does not currently require a fee for any of their certification programs.

Women-Owned Small Business Federal Contract Program (Administered by the SBA)

The SBA is tasked to administer this program and on February 4, 2011 the SBA’s final rule regarding the  Women-Owned Small Business Federal Contract Program went into effect. This program continues to evolve and we recommend periodically checking the SBA WOSB web-page for current information and updates.

In addition to self-certification, the SBA does recognize qualified 8(a) Certified WOSB along with a few third party certifiers recently approved in accordance with the new rule and listed on their WOSB web-page.

Women Owned Business Certification

There are two well-recognized programs that provide national third party certification for women owned and controlled businesses. Both of these programs: require an initial processing fee as well as annual renewal fees; require an on-site interviewer to determine if an applicant has been credible in their application information; have been recently approved as Third Party Certifiers under the SBA WOSB program.

For women business owners who are eligible, National Women Business Owners Corporation (NWBOC) program is acknowledged by certain corporations and government entities. The NWBOC certification can therefore be used in place of multiple state and local certification with entities that acknowledge and accept it.

Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC) program is acknowledged by a variety of corporations and government agencies for women owned business that meet their certification requirements.

Minority Owned Business Certifications

There are several programs that certify minority business owners other than those offered through the SBA. Please contact us for further information.

Department of Transportation Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE)

The DBE Certification is awarded on a state by state basis and should be considered for qualified companies seeking to contract on projects funded by the Department of Transportation.