Today I started down the path of becoming a certified Woman-owned business (sometimes referred to as a woman's business enterprise or WBE).
I've been told this is a daunting task, but one that has definite, tangible benefits. According to the National Women Business Owners Corporation,
Obtaining WBE Certification is an important business development strategy
for women business owners for two primary reasons:First, most local and national government purchasing agencies track and/or have programs for doing business with women business owners. Having WBE Certification is the only way the purchasing agents have confidence that a business representing itself as woman-owned is in fact woman-owned.
Second, in a similar manner many publicly-held corporations, as well as larger private corporations, also track and have programs for doing business with women-owned vendor companies. They, too, rely on WBE Certification.
Two women at National City Bank in Cincinnati have already proven helpful in providing contact information for the NWBOC. And, I found out that the organization offers an application kit that will, theoretically, simplify the process.I took an early peek at the application itself and was startled by the amount of documentation.
I've pitched the Cincinnati Enquirer's small business reporter on following me through the process, but will also be documenting it on this blog.
Once you're certified with the leading statewide certification agency in Ohio (it's the DOT in many states), check your neighboring states as well.
Often, you'll find that they will either recognize your home state's cert or being certified will give you a leg up on their processes.
Good luck!