Every business is dealing with the effects of the COVID-19 crisis right now, including shutdowns, loss of contracts and many other issues. However, it is important for businesses to prepare for what is on the other side of this crisis- potential booms in certain industries, or increased competition in others. A way to stand out and get exposure to additional opportunities is to have a certification as a disadvantaged business enterprise (DBE), minority business enterprise (MBE) or women’s business enterprise (WBE).
Is your business at least 51% owned and controlled by a woman and/or minority? If so, you may qualify for one of these certifications. If you are a business that is looking to make a change in ownership so that a woman or minority is the 51% or more owner, please contact me so that I can help guide you through that process so that you may qualify for one or more of these certifications.
Having one of these certifications may help your business gain exposure to additional opportunities and contacts, and assist you in obtaining certain government and/or corporate contracts to meet requirements and goals for diverse participation.
DBE certification is through a Federal program, but administered at the state level. In Pennsylvania, DBEs are certified through the Pennsylvania Unified Certification Program. A list of the required documents can be found here: https://www.dotsbe.pa.gov/PAUCPHelp/IA%20Document%20checklist.pdf
MBEs can be certified through the Eastern Minority Supplier Diversity Council, and a list of the documents and information needed for that certification can be found here: https://affiliate.nmsdc.org/emsdc/app/template/contentMgmt%2CGetCertified.vm;jsessionid=1BA81C7BED5CE7BFDB1C0912958ED69E
WBEs can be certified through the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council’s Regional Partner Organizations. A list of required documents and information can be found here: https://www.wbenc.org/documentation-required-for-wbenc-certification
