Women-Owned Business Certification

Women-owned business certification is a designation given to businesses that are at least 51% owned and controlled by women. WBEs are certified by third-party organizations like the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC). To qualify, companies must be for-profit and have a legal business entity in the United States. In addition, they must be independently owned and operated and must have at least a majority of female ownership and control.

The main advantage of getting a WBE certification is that it opens up opportunities to work with large corporations and government agencies. Many of these entities have procurement policies that require them to work with a certain percentage of WBEs. A WBE certification can help you stand out from your competitors and land contracts.

Another benefit of a WBE certification is the community it provides. It connects you to other women business owners and advocates across the country. You can participate in networking events, workshops, and seminars to learn more about the issues facing women-owned businesses today. You also have the opportunity to represent your business in forums and committees to advocate for women-owned businesses.

Although a WBE certification does not provide any tax benefits, it may be able to help you qualify for certain state programs that offer incentives for minority and women-owned businesses. The requirements for a WBE certification vary by state, but typically, they include demonstrating that your company is at least 50% women-owned and that the women have a significant role in management and control.

What is the best WBE certification?

In order to qualify for a women-owned business certification, your business must meet certain criteria. Generally, it must be for-profit and at least 51% owned and controlled by women who are U.S citizens. It must also meet the size standards for small business as defined by the Small Business Administration. Finally, the owners must be responsible for the business’s day-to-day operation and long-term direction. Additional requirements, like the number of employees or revenue, may exist depending on the certifying organization.

Whether you’re looking for federal contracts or want to expand your reach with private sector companies, a WBE certification can be an excellent investment. But, deciding which type of certification best serves your interests is important before embarking on the process.

What is Difference Between WBE and WOSB?

WOSB and WBE certification can open doors for your business, but choosing the type that can benefit you the most is important. The main difference between these two types of certification is that a WOSB requires verification that the company is both women-owned and small. This gives the certificate greater value in government contracting terms, as government agencies are required to set aside award money specifically for small businesses, including women-owned businesses. Conversely, a WBE does not require NAICS codes and can be a large or medium-sized company.

There are other benefits to having a women-owned business certification that should also be taken into account when choosing which one is right for your business. For example, both organizations (WBENC and NAWBO) have local and national events that provide networking opportunities with other business owners and educational and training programs. Additionally, a WBE certification can be used as a marketing tool to show potential customers that your company is not only woman-owned but also a viable business.

Keep in mind that both types of certification are subject to renewal every three years. During this time, the Small Business Administration will request specific documentation and proof that the female ownership percentage has not changed. Select GCR can help you prepare and submit the necessary paperwork for your WOSB certification renewal.