An Economically Disadvantaged Women-Owned Small Business (EDWOSB) is a small business concern that is at least 51 percent directly and unconditionally owned and controlled by one or more women who are citizens (born or naturalized) of the United States and who are economically disadvantaged.

The National Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce (NGLCC) created a certification program to help entrepreneurs in the LGBTQ+ community have greater access to contracting opportunities. The Certified LGBT Business Enterprise (LGBTBE) certification gives businesses an opportunity to network and mentor with other LGBTBEs, provides access for scholarships and opens businesses up to special discounts from LGBTQ+ owned and allied partners.

As a veteran of the United States Armed Forces, there are two different certifications you can apply for if you’re starting a business. The Vets First Verification Program is a federal government program that grants certification for Veteran-Owned Small Businesses (VOSB) and Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Businesses (SDVOSB). With these certifications, you’re granted competition for certain contracts that are set aside for veterans and veterans who became disabled while in the act of service.

The Historically Underutilized Business Zone (HUBZone) is a program with the goal of growing businesses in historically underutilized areas by awarding them at least 3% of federal contract dollars each year.

Minority-Owned Businesses Certification

The National Minority Supplier Development Council (NMSDC) is an organization that is committed to integrating Minority Business Enterprises (MBE) equally in the public and private sector. This organization provides MBE certification for minority-owned businesses.

PLEASE READ: Certification Fee's are based on region. Check the Minority website to check where your closest Minority Certification office is located.  CHECK LOCATIONS HERE

*Owner CANNOT be official, officer, or employee of state

*Owner MUST be a US Citizen Personal Net Worth less than $750K

*Business located within New Jersey

*Must be in business minimum 3 months

The 8(a) Small Business Certification was designed to help create equal opportunities for small business owners who are “socially or economically disadvantaged.” The federal government awards at least 5% of contracting dollars for 8(a) businesses and allows them to compete for set aside and sole source contracts.

If your business is majority-owned and operated by one or more women, you may be eligible for the SBA’s Women-Owned Small Business program.