Minority Business Certification
Becoming a certified Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) with the Northwest Mountain MSDC opens doors to exclusive opportunities and resources that can accelerate your business growth. Certification is more than a credential; it’s a strategic advantage that sets your business apart, offering credibility, visibility, and access to a vast network of partners committed to supplier diversity.
Certification Benefits
Business Opportunities
Certified MBEs have access to contracts and purchasing decisions that include diverse supplier spend goals, which means that your firm will appear more competitive when you submit a proposal. Our nationally recognized certification unlocks business opportunities by giving your potential clients the confidence that they are meeting their supplier diversity goals by hiring a certified minority business enterprise (MBE).
Events & Networking
The council produces a range of events designed to bring minority business enterprises (MBEs) together with corporate and public agency members for networking and connection. In addition to the Northwest Mountain MSDC’s annual events, certified MBEs have access to dozens more events nationwide thanks to our network of affiliate councils.
Business Development & Education
We regularly host online and in-person education and development events to facilitate business growth and successful contracting between MBEs and corporations and public agency members. Whether you’re just starting out in business or have already been successful, our team is ready to help your business go to the next level.
Certification Process
Becoming a certified minority business enterprise (MBE) requires a few steps that take some time, but are worth the effort as you unlock new opportunities. Our team will help you through every step of the way.
- Review Criteria: Ensure your business qualifies for certification by meeting criteria such as being at least 51% minority-owned, operated, and controlled.
- Gather Documentation: Collect required documents, including proof of U.S. citizenship for owners and business location details.
- Complete Application: Fill out the online application, preview questions, and upload necessary documents. Pay the non-refundable application fee online.
- Certification Review: The NMSDC team audits your application, contacts customer references, and may conduct interviews or site visits.
- Decision: You’ll be informed of the certification decision once the evaluation is complete
Is MBE Certification right for me?
The Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) certification from the National Minority Supplier Development Council (NMSDC) is a recognition given to businesses that are at least 51% owned, operated, and controlled by minority group members. This certification helps minority-owned businesses gain access to corporate supply chains and new business opportunities.
Certification Eligibility Criteria
In order to be certified as a minority business enterprise (MBE) by the Northwest Mountain MSDC, the business must be:
- At least 51% minority-owned (Hispanic American, Native American, Asian/Pacific American, Asian Indian American)
- A for-profit business
- Physically headquartered in the United States or its territories
- Owned, operated, controlled, and managed by the minority owner(s) who must hold U.S. citizenship
The Northwest Mountain Minority Supplier Development Council serves Idaho, Washington, Utah, Alaska, Montana, Oregon and Wyoming. Below are the types of businesses who benefit from certification with the Northwest Mountain MSDC.
Small- & Medium-Sized Enterprises
Businesses across various industries, such as manufacturing, logistics, construction, transportation, marketing, and consulting, seek MBE certification.
Startups
New businesses, especially those in technology and innovative sectors, often pursue certification to gain early access to corporate supply chains.
Established Companies
Larger, well-established companies also seek certification to diversify their client base and enhance their market presence.
“I have been certified for 15, 16 years. It’s supported me in a way of building a community that I would have otherwise not had. It has recognized me as a business within a business community that didn’t recognize me in the beginning […] Things come to fruition because of the community through the Northwest MSDC.”
“The NWMMSDC has not only provided us the MBE certification which helps us become a preferred vendor for many corporations but has connected us to many potential opportunities like Port of Seattle Authority, T-Mobile Park and so on.”
“Being able to promote [my certification] speaks volumes to other people of how serious we are about diversity.”
Why Certify?
Access to Corporate Contracts
Certified MBEs are listed in the NMSDC database, which is accessed by over 1,400 corporate members looking to diversify their suppliers.
Networking Opportunities
Certification provides opportunities to connect with other minority-owned businesses and large corporations through events and conferences.
Increased Visibility
Being certified can enhance a business’s credibility and visibility in the marketplace, making it easier to attract new clients and partners.
Support and Resources
Certified MBEs often gain access to training, mentorship, and other resources that can help them grow and succeed.
Frequently Asked Questions about Minority Business Certification
I just recently opened my business. Am I still eligible to apply for the MBE certification?
Yes, we ask that you submit two (2) years of personal tax returns.
How much does MBE certification cost?
The cost for your MBE certification depends on the revenue class of your business.
Class 1 (annual revenue less than $1,000,000) = $300
Class 2 (annual revenue between $1,000,000 and $10,000,000) = $550
Class 3 (annual revenue between $10,000,000 and $50,000,000) = $850
Class 4 (annual revenue more than $50,000,000) = $950
How much time is required to obtain a certification?
30-40 business days.
What if the application is asking for a document I don’t have?
There is an N/A option available.
What is the recertification process like?
All you need to do is update the company’s revenue, taxes, and upload the recertification affidavit.
How much does recertification cost?
The cost for your MBE recertification depends on the revenue class of your business.
Class 1 (annual revenue less than $1,000,000) = $250
Class 2 (annual revenue between $1,000,000 and $10,000,000) = $500
Class 3 (annual revenue between $10,000,000 and $50,000,000) = $800
Class 4 (annual revenue more than $50,000,000) = $900
Will I receive a certificate once my application is approved?
You will receive a serial number and a downloadable certificate to use.
Is it possible to make changes to my application after I have already submitted it?
You may update your application throughout the process.
How do you verify ethnicity?
You verify your ethnicity through birth/death certificates, or Federal Documents where your ethnicity is clearly stated.
Is it okay for me to certify or already be certified with other organizations as well?
Yes, of course.
Where can I apply for certification?
You can apply here.