How Do I Register As A Woman Owned Small Business? 

So you have a women-owned business? Have you ever thought about where to get your company certified? Yes right? But, still confused about where to start from? I get it!  

Many entrepreneurs like you wonder about the entire process, the benefits, and whether it’s worth the hassle or not.  

And the good news is? The entire process is worth the effort you will put in. Even the process is not as complicated as it may seem!  

So, if you are curious about “how do I register as a woman-owned small business,” this guide is just for you!  

In this blog, I will break down everything step by step, explain all the benefits, and further help you determine which certification is the right one for you. So, are you ready? Let’s dive in!  

Why Get Certified As A Woman-Owned Business? 

Before we jump into learning “How Do I Register As A Woman Owned Small Business”, we must first understand the reason why we should consider it. The answer is pretty simple: opportunities!  

Certifications like these can open up new opportunities for you, essentially opening doors that were once closed.  

From federal contracts to corporate supplier programs, certification can help your business stand out in the crowd. So, certification? It is a smart move! Wait! I have evidence to prove my statement! 

1. Access to government contracts. Many government agencies are spending goals for women-owned businesses. Certifications like these can help you compete for the contracts.  

2. Second comes the corporate supplier diversity programs. Large corporations have initiated various initiatives to purchase from a diverse range of suppliers. This even includes women-owned businesses.  

3. You can also take advantage of various networking opportunities. As a certified business, you can participate in exclusive networking events, training programs, and mentorship opportunities.   

4. Fourthly, you can get better enhanced credibility. The certification always adds credibility. The result? You can demonstrate to your clients, customers, and partners that your business is meeting all the necessary standards.  

Now that you know the benefits, let’s explore how to get certified as a woman-owned business. 

Types of Woman-Owned Business Certifications 

Once you start exploring, you will see there are several certification types that you can apply for! However, the entire choice highly depends on your business goals and the market that you want to target! 

In the US, there are two most popular certifications that you can find!  

1. Women-Owned Small Business (WOSB) Certification 

The WOSB federal certification mprimarily enablesall wwomen-owned smallbusinesses to compete for government contracts.  

2. Women Business Enterprise (WBE) Certification 

This is primarily for doing business with big companies and government agencies through supplier diversity programs. 

Several other certifications are region and industry-specific, but these two are more widely followed. 

Eligibility Requirements for Certification 

Before you apply, it is essential to verify that your business meets all the necessary qualifications. Though the requirements will be slightly different from one certifying organization to another, in general, you will need: 

• The business must be at least 51% woman-owned: A business can only be considered a woman-owned business if the owners are women who have the majority control. 

• Woman-owned: The female owner(s) running the business are those who are responsible for the day-to-day operations nd making the long-term decisions. 

• U.S. Citizenship: The female owner(s) should be citizens of the U.S. or have legal permanent residency. 

• Small Business Status (for WOSB): To be eligible for WOSB certification, your enterprise is expected to fulfill the small business size standards set by the SBA. 

How Do I Register As A Woman Owned Small Business: The Steps 

Now that you have chverifiedour eligibility, let’s break down the steps for geobtaining certifications a woman-owned business. 

Step 1: Choose Which Certification You Require 

Firstly, decide what kind of certification is most suitable for your company. 

But, how to secure contracts from the government? Well, in that case, you need two things: WOSB and EDWOSB (Economically Disadvantaged Women-Owned Small Business). These certifications are issued by the SBA. 

Now, in case you want to participate in corporate supplier diversity initiatives! What to do then? Well, the industry experts believe that it would be best if you become WBE certified through organizations such as  

• WBENC (Women’s Business Enterprise National Council)  

• NWBOC (National Women Business Owners Corporation). 

If it also corresponds to your business profile, you can go for both certifications. 

Step 2: Gather Documentation 

In order to maintain the process smoothly, have the documents you need in advance. Although the documents vary with the certifying authority, the following are common ones you will need: 

• Business license/registration 

• Articles of organization or incorporation 

• Operating agreements/bylaws 

• Proof of U.S. citizenship (birth certificate or passport) 

• Financial statements 

• Resume(s) of the female owner(s) 

• Partnership contracts (where necessary) 

• Stock certificates and books (for companies) 

Having all these papers at your command will simplify your application process. 

Step 3: Apply for Certification 

For WOSB Certification: 

You can get certified as a WOSB from the online platform of the SBA. According to recent information, the SBA offers a free certification service on their website, certify.sba.gov. 

You’ll need to: 

1. Sign up on the SBA’s certification website. 

2. Fill out the application form and submit the supporting documents. 

3. Send and wait for approval — it takes a few weeks. 

Or you can also be certified as a WOSB by utilizing third-party certifiers that have been SBA-approved, such as WBENC or NWBOC, but it is not free. 

For WBE Certification: 

If your area of specialization is corporate contracts, you can apply through: 

• WBENC (wbenc.org) 

• NWBOC (nwboc.org) 

• USWCC (uswcc.org) — a second certification choice. 

These are programs: 

1. Completing an online application form. 

2. Uploading all required documents. 

3. Payment of the application fee (ranging from $350 to $1,200 based on the size of your company and the certifying organization). 

4. Site visit or interview completion (some certifiers ask for this to verify information). 

Step 4: Prepare for a Site Visit (If Applicable) 

Certain certifying organizations, particularly WBENC and NWBOC, may make a site visit to verify your business information and ensure that it is indeed woman-owned and controlled. 

Don’t panic, it is not an examination! The aim is to verify the information you gave on your application. You will need to be able to demonstrate: 

• Commercial properties 

• Business letters 

• Evidence of operational control by the female owner(s) 

Step 5: Get Approved and Begin Utilizing Your Certification 

Once we’ve issued approval, you can get your official certification. Now what? Use it! 

• Register on government procurement websites such as SAM.gov to view federal contracting opportunities. 

• Get listed on big company supplier diversity databases. 

• Attend networking events, workshops, and expos that are designed for certified businesses. 

• Advertise your certification on your website, social media, and marketing materials. 

For How Long Is Certification Valid? 

The majority of certifications have a one-year lifespan. You will need to renew every year, which generally includes the renewal of your document and perhaps another review or site visit. 

Oh! And please make sure that you are keeping track of your renewal dates so that you don’t lose certified status. 

Tips to Make the Process Easier 

Obtaining certification is a paperwork nightmare, but use these suggestions to make it easier: 

First things first, you have to stay Organized. This is not much! You just have to have all the documents needed in one online folder so you can quickly access them. 

Secondly, you have to seek assistance. There are some organizations, such as local SBA offices and women’s business centers, which assist with how to apply. 

After that, do not! I repeat! Do not forget to check for Fees. There are application fees for some certifications, so plan. 

Lastly, be complete and honest. Trust me! Accuracy is important! Inaccurate or incomplete information can delay or sabotage your application. 

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