Resource Guide
Methods that Work for Creating Corporate Clients, page 26
What does it mean to be certified as a “women’s business enterprise”?
Certification as a women’s business enterprise means that at least 51% of a company is owned by a woman or women, and that a woman or women manage and control business operations. Certification assures corporations and prime contractors that a company has been validated by a third party as being woman-owned and operated. It is key for doing business with corporations who are committed to increasing supplier diversity.
How does a company become certified?
Becoming certified as a women’s business enterprise requires an application process through a third-party organization. There are a number of organizations that provide this service. Some focus on certain regions, while others cover a national market. There are also organizations that issue certification based on one’s ethnic status, such as the National Minority Supplier Development Council.
The process, cost and benefits of certification can vary according to the organization – though you can register with more than one – so be sure to shop around as you consider the investment. There are also consultants who will assist you in finding the right certification process for your firm, and will help you with application forms.
The Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC)
The Women ’s Business Enterprise National Council is one of the best known national organizations providing certification for women’s business owners. More detailed information is available on their web site. www.wbenc.org
The Women’s Business Enterprise National Council is dedicated to enhancing opportunities for women’s business enterprises. Their certification is accepted by more than 500 major corporations across the country and a number of federal and government agencies.
Certification by the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council allows women’s business enterprises to be listed on the WBENCLinc database, which is used by purchasing professionals to identify vendors. In addition to being listed on the database, other benefits include training programs, matchmaker meetings and access to Internet tools that serve as communication vehicles for women’s business enterprises and potential customers.
The National Women Business Owners Corporation www.nwboc.org
Another national certification organization is the National Women Business Owners Corporation (NWBOC), an affiliate of the National Association of Women Business Owners, which was established to increase competition for corporate and government contracts.
NWBOC certification includes having one’s company listed in an online database of women business enterprises called Marketplace.
Citation
Center for Women’s Business Research. “Methods that Work for Creating Corporate Clients, page 26.” Washington, DC.