Starting the process: How to get a small business certified

Many small businesses can take advantage of contracting and other opportunities from large companies and federal, state and local agencies. They must qualify for certain categories, such as being at least 51% owned by women, minorities, veterans and LGBT owners and they must be certified by either an organization or the government, depending on the type of certification they’re seeking.The best-known certification for companies owned by women is given by WBENC, the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council. Visit www.wbenc.org/certification . It’s also possible for owners to certify themselves on the Small Business Administration website,