Sales & Contracting Opportunities
For Women & Minority Owned Businesses
Did you know that there are revenue and income opportunities set aside just for women and minority owned businesses? This includes government contracts, RFP’s, and more! Here you can learn about how to find and obtain those opportunities, and about government programs you can register for.
Government Contracting Programs
This is an SBA program that offers contracts for WOSBs in industries where firms are underrepresented. WOSBs are firms that are at least 51% owned and controlled by women. The federal government awards at least 5% of all contracts to WOSBs annually. WOSBs may also qualify as economically disadvantaged (EDWOSB).
Learn MoreThis SBA program is designed for firms 51% or more owned and controlled by one or more socially and economically disadvantaged persons. The federal government awards about 10% of all federal contracts to socially and economically disadvantaged businesses (SDBs) annually. The 8(a) program typically requires that businesses have revenues that exceed $10 million annually.
The 8(a) Business Development program helps socially and economically disadvantaged small businesses grow by limiting competition for certain contracts to participating businesses, allowing them to become solid competitors in the federal marketplace.
The HUBZone program fuels small business growth in historically underutilized business zones with a goal of awarding at least 3% of federal contract dollars to HUBZone-certified companies each year.
The government limits competition for certain contracts to businesses in historically underutilized business zones. The program aims to award at least three percent of federal contract dollars each year to HUBZone-certified companies.
The MPP is designed for a business mentor and protégé to jointly apply for contracts.The SBA Mentor-Protégé Program enables eligible small businesses (protégés) to get valuable business development help and win government contracts through partnerships with more experienced companies (mentors).
Learn MoreCertifications & Contracting Programs to Consider
Small Business
Small Business Enterprise (SBE)
Certifies small businesses to compete for government and corporate contracts set aside specifically for SBEs. Requirements vary by state and agency.
Small Disadvantaged Business (SDB)
A federal designation for businesses owned by socially and economically disadvantaged individuals. SDB certification helps businesses qualify for certain federal contracts and procurement opportunities.
HUBZone Certification
The Historically Underutilized Business Zone (HUBZone) Program, managed by the SBA, provides federal contracting advantages to small businesses in underdeveloped areas to promote economic growth.
Minority-Owned Business
Minority Business Enterprise (MBE)
For businesses that are at least 51% minority-owned (Black, Hispanic, Asian, Native American, etc.). MBEs receive access to corporate supplier diversity programs and government contracts.
Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE)
A federally recognized certification for businesses that are at least 51% owned by socially and economically disadvantaged individuals. Required for participation in federally funded transportation projects.
Native American Business Enterprise (NABE)
A certification for businesses that are Native American-owned, allowing them to participate in federal and tribal government contracting opportunities.
Women-Owned Business
Women’s Business Enterprise (WBE)
Certification for businesses that are 51% or more owned, controlled, and operated by women. WBEs gain access to corporate supplier diversity initiatives and government contracting opportunities.
Women Owned Small Business
A federal certification under the SBA that gives women-owned businesses priority for federal government contracts in industries where women are underrepresented.
Economically Disadvantaged Women-Owned Small Business (EDWOSB)
A subset of the WOSB certification, this program is for women-owned businesses that also meet economic disadvantage criteria, offering even more government contracting opportunities.
Veteran Owned Business
Veteran-Owned Small Business (VOSB)
Certification for businesses that are at least 51% veteran-owned. Helps veterans access federal contracts, state/local government programs, and private sector supplier diversity initiatives.
Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB)
A program specifically for service-disabled veterans that provides contracting preferences in federal procurement. Managed by the VA and SBA.
HUBZone Certification
The Historically Underutilized Business Zone (HUBZone) Program, managed by the SBA, provides federal contracting advantages to small businesses in underdeveloped areas to promote economic growth.
Environmental Certifications
Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED)
An internationally recognized green building certification for businesses committed to sustainability and environmental responsibility in construction and operations.
B-Corp Certification
A designation for businesses that meet high standards of social and environmental responsibility, accountability, and transparency. Ideal for businesses with a mission-driven focus.
Green Business Certification (GBC)
A certification for businesses that demonstrate sustainable practices, energy efficiency, and waste reduction.
Other Programs
SBA 8(a) Business Development Program
A federal program for small businesses owned by socially and economically disadvantaged individuals. Provides access to set-aside government contracts, training, and mentorship.
SBA Mentor-Protégé Program
A program that pairs small businesses with experienced government contractors (mentors) to gain guidance, networking, and opportunities for joint ventures.
LGBT Business Enterprise (LGBTBE)
For businesses 51% or more owned and operated by LGBTQ+ individuals. Certified through the National LGBT Chamber of Commerce (NGLCC), this program provides access to corporate and government contracting opportunities.
Disability-Owned Business Enterprise (DOBE)
Certifies businesses that are 51% owned and controlled by individuals with disabilities. Managed by the Disability:IN organization, this certification connects businesses to corporate supplier diversity programs.
State and Local Certifications
Many states and cities offer their own small business, minority, and women-owned business certifications, which can provide contracting advantages at the local level. Examples:
- Texas HUB (Historically Underutilized Business) Program
- California Unified Certification Program (CUCP)
- New York State MWBE Certification
Made in USA Certification
For manufacturers that want to showcase their American-made products to attract federal and corporate buyers.
Applying for Certifications & Programs
1. Research and Select Certifications: Identify which certifications are most relevant to your business needs and goals. Check eligibility criteria to ensure you qualify.
2. Gather Required Documents, which often include:
- Business plan: Detailed plan outlining your business goals, market analysis, and strategies.
- Financial statements: Recent profit and loss statements, balance sheets, and cash flow statements.
- Tax returns: Copies of your business’s most recent tax returns.
- Proof of ownership: Documents verifying the ownership structure of your business (e.g., articles of incorporation, partnership agreements).
- Additional Documents: Any other documents specific to the certification, such as evidence of minority ownership for MBE certification or proof of service-connected disability for SDVOSB certification.
3. Complete Application Forms: Fill out the required forms for each certification. This may be done online or via mail, depending on the certifying body.
4. Prepare a Compelling Narrative: Write a statement or narrative explaining your business, its goals, and how the certification will benefit your operations.
5. Submit Application and Fees: Submit your application along with any required fees. Double-check for completeness and accuracy.
6. Follow Up: Track your application status and be prepared to provide additional information if requested.
Application Tips
Follow Instructions Carefully
Ensure you adhere to the specific guidelines provided by the certifying body. This includes format, required documents, and submission methods.
Be Thorough and Accurate
Incomplete or inaccurate applications can lead to delays or rejections. Double-check all information before submission.
Seek Professional Assistance
Consider hiring a consultant or using resources from organizations like the SBA or SCORE to help with the application process.
Stay Organized
Keep copies of all submitted documents and correspondence for future reference.
Highlight Unique Value
Clearly articulate how your business stands out and the benefits of certifying your business.
Contracting Programs & Organizations
Supplier Diversity Programs
Many large corporations have supplier diversity programs aimed at doing business with minority-owned, women-owned, veteran-owned, LGBTQ+-owned, and small businesses. Becoming a certified diverse supplier can open up many doors.
Below is a list of Supplier Diversity Programs. Take a look and see which ones fit your business the best!