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August 09, 2005
Small Diadvantaged and Women-Owned Businesses
If you are interested in government contracts and you're a small disadvantaged business, you might want to look into certification. At the federal level, you can apply for certification through the Small Business Administration (SBA) website. For certification at the state level, you will need to contact your state government to find out which department provides certification services. There are also companies that will (for a fee), help you prepare and submit your certification application.
Even though the federal government has what they call "size standards" for small businesses, most of us pretty much know what a small business is. Small disadvantaged businesses -- often called minority businesses -- are a different story, and many people and companies are not really aware of what constitutes a minority business. The same goes for a women-owned business.
As defined by the SBA, a small disadvantaged or minority business is one that is "owned and controlled by one or more socially and economically disadvantaged individuals who are of good character and citizens of the United States." This means that at least 51% of the company must be owned by person(s) who are considered to be disadvantaged. Socially disadvantaged or minority groups include Black Americans, Hispanic Americans, Native Americans, Asian Pacific Americans and other groups specifically designated by the SBA. In addition to being a member of one of these groups and owning 51% or more of the business, you must demonstrate that you are also economically disadvantaged; that is, your net worth cannot exceed $250,000 (excluding equity in the business and in your home).
The federal government does not consider women to be a minority group (hey, don't yell at me - I don't make the rules). If you're a women-owned business and want to bid on a federal contract or be a subcontractor on one, you can self-certify your business. To be eligible as a woman-owned business for this purpose, your business must be 51% owned by one or more women. It is possible to obtain formal certification as a woman-owned business at the state level -- again you need to contact the appropriate office in your state to get information on this.
Clear as mud? Probably not. Head over to the SBA's website for more information:
- Small Disadvantaged Business Programs and Frequently Asked Questions .
- Office of Women's Business Ownership and Frequently Asked Questions.
Posted by Deborah at August 9, 2005 07:07 AM
Hi Deborah,
Just three quick comments. First of all, as one of your subscribers, I
wanted you to know that I really enjoy reading your blog. It's nice to know
that I'm not the only one going through some of the frustrations and delays
in this business.
Next, I can sympathize with your on your book proposal. I'm working on one
with a client, and it's tough some days to get and stay motivated.
Something that I found that helps is to ask the 'so what' questions when
you're trying to come up with headlines, catchy titles and summaries about
your chapters. Think of the main point you want to get across, and then ask
yourself 'so what' until you've got it really narrowed down; somehow,
asking questions helps you to focus on creative answers.
And finally, not trying to toot my own horn, but I wrote an article that
helps to make sense of the government contracting process, if your readers
are interested, it's in the August edition of SCORE's magazine, and
can be found
here.
The article itself is here.
This issue also gives information about the next SBA-sponsored 'business
matchmaking event' that lets small business owners meet with local, state
and federal government purchasing agents. This is a fabulous idea for anyone
who has been in business for at least a year, and feels like they're ready
to start selling to the government. If you're just starting out, the
article will give you some great tips on how to break into the market to get
your feet wet and gain some experience before going after larger contracts.
What's really great about the matchmaking program is that starting at the
end of this year, or the first part of next, business owners will be able to
register and make their pitch on line. Anyway, more information can be
found here.
Again, thanks for your blog. I always enjoy reading it.
Posted by: Cheryl Antier at August 9, 2005 08:56 AM
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