For many small businesses in Ohio, obtaining certifications, such as Veteran Friendly Business Enterprise (VFBE), Minority Business Enterprise (MBE), or Women Business Enterprise (WBE), can be a game-changer. These types of businesses are often at a disadvantage and struggle to have fair access to opportunity. Certifications can help build a path to government contracts, grants, and networking opportunities that can accelerate business growth. However, many business owners have questions about the certification process, where to apply, and whether policy changes under the new administration could impact their status.
This article outlines the process for getting certified by the State of Ohio and the City of Cincinnati, the benefits of certification, and what businesses should watch out for in 2025.
State of Ohio Certifications
The Ohio Department of Development manages four certification programs, ensuring that veteran -, minority-, women-, and other disadvantaged business owners have fair access to state government contracting opportunities.
Eligibility Criteria:
To qualify for MBE, WBE , VFBE, or EDGE certification in Ohio, a business must:
- Be at least 51% owned and controlled by one or more individuals who are:
- Minorities (African American, Hispanic, Asian, or Native American) for MBE certification
- Women for WBE certification
- Veterans for VFBE certification, or at least 10% of employees are veterans. Also, they must be certified by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
- Socially and economically disadvantaged (either the owner is socially and economically disadvantaged OR the business is located in a qualified census tract and the owner is economically disadvantaged) for EDGE certification.
- Be operational for at least one year
- Have an Ohio-based principal office
- Demonstrate day-to-day control and decision-making authority by the qualifying owner(s)
Where to Apply:
- Ohio Business Gateway – Businesses must submit applications online through the Ohio Business Gateway.
- Cross-Certification – Businesses already certified by certain local programs may qualify for expedited certification through the state.
Key Benefits of State-Level Certification:
- Access to State Contracts: Ohio has a goal of awarding 15% of eligible state contracts to certified businesses.
- Eligibility for Set-Aside Contracts: Many state contracts are specifically reserved for disadvantaged businesses.
- Resources & Support: Certified businesses gain access to networking events, technical assistance, and training programs, as well as financial and bonding assistance.
- Easier Certification with Other Entities: Certification in Ohio can help fast-track approval with city, federal, and corporate supplier inclusivity programs.
Certification in Cincinnati
The City of Cincinnati’s Department of Economic Inclusion offers five certification programs to help small businesses compete for city-level contracts and increase business opportunities for small, local, women, and minority business enterprises.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Similar to state-level requirements, MBE and WBE businesses must be 51% owned and operated by qualifying minority or women owners.
- SBE certification requires that the annual business revenue and personal net worth of the owner(s) are below certain limits.
- Businesses must be headquartered within Hamilton County.
- ELBE (Emerging Local Business Enterprise) and SLBE (Small Local Business Enterprise) businesses must be located in the City of Cincinnati..
Where to Apply:
- Applications are submitted through the City of Cincinnati’s Department of Economic Inclusion via their website.
- Some businesses may qualify for cross-certification with the state, reducing paperwork and processing time.
Additional Benefits of City Certification:
- City Contracting Opportunities: Cincinnati has its own goals for supplier inclusivity to ensure that a percentage of city contracts go to small, local, women and minority businesses.
- Local Networking and Partnerships: Certification connects local government agencies and large corporations.
- Fast-Track Certification for State Programs: City-certified businesses may receive expedited approval for Ohio’s MBE and WBE certifications.
Why Should Your Business Get Certified?
Getting certified as an MBE or WBE offers numerous long-term advantages beyond just government contracts:
1. Increased Business Visibility
Certified businesses are listed in official supplier directories, making them more discoverable by government buyers and private-sector companies with supplier diversity programs.
2. Competitive Advantage in Bidding
Government agencies and corporations may prioritize contracts with certified businesses.. Certification can give your business a leg up when competing for work.
3. Financial Assistance & Grants
Certified businesses may be eligible for grants, low-interest loans, and business development programs.
4. Access to Exclusive Networking & Mentorship
- Certification connects businesses with industry leaders and experienced entrepreneurs through mentorship programs.
5. Training & Business Development Resources
Certified businesses can access free or subsidized business training programs to improve operations, marketing, and financial management.
Potential Challenges & Changes Under the New Administration
While Ohio has historically maintained strong support for its programs to help small business owners get equal access to opportunity, shifts in administration priorities could lead to adjustments in funding, certification requirements, or procurement goals.
What Could Change?
- Modifications to Set-Aside Contracts: Some changes could impact the percentage targets for contracts with certified businesses.
- Adjustments in Certification Requirements: New policies might streamline or complicate the application process.
- Potential Policy Reviews: The administration may review existing supplier diversity programs, which could lead to enhancements or reductions in benefits.
How to Stay Ahead?
- Monitor Official State & City Websites for any updates.
- Contact your representatives at the federal, state, and local levels.
- Engage with Local Business Support Organizations such as:
- Attend Certification Workshops & Webinars to stay informed about policy changes.
Final Thoughts: Is Certification Worth It?
For small businesses in Ohio and Cincinnati, certification can be a crucial tool for growth. It can help businesses compete for state and local government contracts and get access to financial assistance and networking opportunities that can lead to significant business expansion. If you are considering applying for certification, you might start by asking yourself:
- Is your business likely to qualify?
- Do you provide goods and/or services that are commonly contracted by public entities (e.g., cleaning, construction, landscaping, etc.).
- Are there other opportunities, like grants and/or loans, that might be available to certified businesses in your area?
While policy shifts may occur, staying informed and actively engaged with certifying agencies and business development programs will help your business maximize the benefits of certification.
If you’re considering certification, start the process early to ensure you’re ready to take advantage of upcoming opportunities.
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