Getting your minority-owned business certified with the Northwest Mountain MSDC can seem daunting. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the certification process step-by-step, highlighting key details and what to expect along the way. Be sure to check out our previous posts on what the NWMMSDC certification is here and eligibility requirements here.
Here is the step-by-step guide to the MBE Certification process:
Step 1: Complete the Online Application
The first step to obtaining your MBE certification is to complete the online application. Visit the official NWMMSDC certification portal here and fill out the required details about your business. If you haven’t already, make sure to review our previous post on the eligibility criteria to ensure your business meets the necessary requirements before submitting.
Step 2: Application Review
Once your application is submitted, the certification team will conduct a thorough review of your provided documents. If anything is missing or needs clarification, you’ll be contacted for additional information. Be sure to double-check your application for any missing documents before submission to avoid delays.
Step 3: Virtual or In-Person Site Visit
As part of the certification process, you will be asked to participate in either a virtual interview, a physical site visit, or both. This step helps the certification team understand your business operations and ensures that all eligibility requirements are met.
Step 4: Committee and Board Approval
Once all the necessary documentation has been reviewed and the site visit or interview is complete, the certification team will present your application to the NWMMSDC’s certification committee and board for final approval.
Step 5: Certification Approval and Orientation
If your application is approved, you will receive your official MBE certification. An orientation session will be scheduled to introduce you to the Council, its benefits, and how you can make the most of your new certification. This orientation is a valuable opportunity to connect with other certified businesses and explore potential opportunities.
Ongoing Visibility and Communication
Throughout the process, you will have visibility into the status of your application and will be notified once a final decision has been made. If you have any questions during the process, you can use the messaging feature within the certification system to contact the team.
What If My Application Is Denied?
If your application is not approved and you believe there was a mistake, you have 30 days to appeal the decision. An appeals committee will review your case and determine whether the certification decision should be reconsidered. This provides an opportunity to ensure that all aspects of your application have been thoroughly evaluated. If the re-evaluation results in the non-acceptance of your application, you may reapply in a year.
For more answers to frequently questions, check out: Everything You Need to Know About MBE Certification: Common FAQs Answered
With this step-by-step guide to the MBE certification process, you’re one step closer to unlocking new business opportunities. Be sure to review our previous posts on the eligibility requirements and benefits of certification for more insights.
To start the process of certifying your minority-owned business, click here.