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Certify as a Woman Owned Business


Government agencies and hundreds of national corporations are working to diversify their supplier base by identifying opportunities to do business with women owned companies. To let them know you qualify as a “Woman Business Enterprise,” commonly referred to as a WBE, you often need an outside organization to evaluate your business to determine that you meet the eligibility requirements

The WBDC provides you with a nationally recognized certification through our partnership with the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council. Hundreds of corporations accept our certification, as well as several local government agencies. For more information on who accepts our WBE certification see the Corporate Partners and Government Partners sections.

Client Testimonial
I learned from the process of certification that if I took it one step at a time, it was not so overwhelming,” says one recent applicant. “At first, the paperwork just took my breath away. But it’s worth it. I would recommend that other women entrepreneurs take advantage of this WBDC offering.”

Who Can Benefit?
Any business that is majority owned, operated, and controlled by one or more women and targets other businesses as customers should consider WBE certification. Please read the Eligibility Criteria for WBE Certification to help you determine whether or not you should apply

How We Can Help You
The WBDC provides a nationally recognized certification for WBEs. You can apply for our certification online by clicking on the Apply for WBE Certification button.

Once you are certified we offer workshops and networking events that will help you to maximize the use of your WBE status. Download “I’m Certified, Now What?” to learn more about how to make the most of your WBE status.

For more information on applying for certification or upcoming events for WBEs, please send an e-mail to certification@wbdc.org.

Next Steps

1. Download the WBE Self-Assessment quiz to see if WBE Certification is for you.

2. Read the Eligibility Criteria to help you understand whether or not your company may qualify for WBE Certification.

3. If you determine that WBE Certification is for you AND you believe your company would meet the requirements go to the Apply for WBE Certification Section to apply online.
 
Certification Prices
 
As of January 1, 2008 the fee structure for WBDC Certification has changed: 

New Renew
Gross Annual Revenues Under 2 million $350 $275
Gross Annual Revenues from 2 Million to 8 Million $650 $575
Gross Annual Revenues Over 8 million $950 $875
*Revenue based on most recent 12 month tax return
 

 

Criteria for WBE Certification
Apply for WBE Certification

Corporate Partners of WBDC

Government Partners of the WBDC

WBE Database

Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (IDCEO)
WBENC's Self Assessment Quiz
Women's Business Enterprise National Council



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