How to Certify your Business as Woman-Owned

But where do you start?

Certifying your business as woman-owned can open new opportunities for business growth.

Why Certify Your Business As Woman-Owned?
In addition to large federal government contracts, many state and local governments have committed a percentage of their contract spend to women-owned business. This also extends to the corporate world where many large businesses like AT&T, Ford, Johnson & Johnson and Macy’s have been recognized for their commitment to women-owned businesses.

Where Can You Certify Your Business?
There are several nationally recognized certifications for women-owned businesses. It’s up to you to decide which is the best fit.

Before you get started, remember that certification does require many supporting documents to prove you meet eligibility requirements. What you’ll need to verify varies by your business structure (sole proprietorship, LLC. etc.) For an example, look at the application process through the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council. You also may go through and interview process. Applications fees vary, and can range based on the size of your business. Generally it costs several hundred dollars to $1,000. Usually certification must be renewed on an annual basis, and the process can take 30 to 60 days to finish. Texas has their own women (and minority) certification programs http://www.window.state.tx.us/procurement/prog/hub/

Do you qualify as a woman’ owned business?
Each type of certification has its unique quirks, but there are some broad requirements that generally apply no matter which organization with which you choose to call upon.

• Eligibility requirements under the SBA program are typical, and include:
• Firm must be at least 51% owned and controlled by one or more women,
• Firm must primarily be managed by one or more women.
• Women must be U.S. citizens.
• Firm must be “small” in its primary industry in accordance with SBA’s size standards for that industry.

Read the full article at: http://blog.connxus.com/2013/10/02/how-to-certify-your-business-as-woman-owned/

Patty Block, President and Founder of The Block Group, established her company to advocate for women-owned businesses, helping them position their companies for strategic growth. Charting the course for impactful, sustainable, profitable businesses, the beacon is control: of your strategic direction, your money, your time, your staffing, and your ability to bring in business. The Block Group brings together the people, resources and ideas that build results.

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