Certifying Your Small Business

Posted by Biz Central USA Marketing Team on September 24, 2008 under Small Biz and Entrepreneurship | Be the First to Comment

Many contractors are unaware of the numerous small business certification and assistance programs that exist today to aid underprivileged businesses. In fact, many of these programs are aimed specifically at overcoming the effects of discrimination, which may be a significant obstacle for such individuals to conquer. Here at BizCentral, we seek to create increased awareness of these opportunities, as well as to assist socially and economically disadvantaged firms in obtaining the credentials necessary to compete with larger entities.

Numerous government entities, including the Small Business Administration and Women”s Business Enterprise National Council offer innovative opportunities to assure that small contractors are not left behind in the race for federal contracts. Programs such as the SBA’s 8a teach small companies how to compete in the federal contracting arena and how to take advantage of greater subcontracting opportunities available from large firms as the result of public-private partnerships. For more detailed information on the most common certification programs, check out:

•SBA- 8a or SDB
•Women’s Business Enterprise National Council
• Minority Supplier Development Council
• HUB Zone
• Veteran Owned Business
• Department of Transportation

Nonetheless, the process for applying for inclusion in these programs can be grueling. You must meticulously review application requirements and organizational documentation to assure that each your business has the greatest chance at successfully obtaining certifications and subsequently competing for beneficial contracts, thus bolstering profits. These programs are, in effect, the gateway to opportunity for small contractors and subcontractors.