How to Qualify as a Minority Owned Business

To become certified as a minority business, at least 51% of your company needs to be owned by a minority. The benefits of qualifying as a minority business include: access to the federal procurement market, ability to qualify for projects that require a certain percentage of minority business enterprise (MBE) participation and access to educational programs and financial assistance specific to MBEs.

Instructions

1. Visit the Small Business Administration website for information about the 8(a) program. The basic requirements is that a business must be "owned and controlled by a socially and economically disadvantaged individual."

2. Apply to the 8(a) Program. You can apply by visiting any SBA district office. For a list of district offices, please visit the first link in the Resources section below.

3. Visit the National Minority Supplier Diversity Council website. You will find information on certification procedures for each state that offers its own certification.

Tips & Warnings

• Remember that you can be certified on the federal and state levels.

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish
• SBA District Offices
• SBA 8(a) program
• Minority Business Development Agency
• National Minority Supplier Development Council