How to Become a Minority Business
State governments often show some preference to minority businesses in an effort to promote a diverse business environment, like in bidding state projects. Although the requirements to be certified as a minority business may vary by state, it mostly refers to a business more than half-owned by an ethnic minority or women. To be certified as a minority business, you have to register with the state in which you operate and show proof of your business' finances and structure.
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Instructions
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Meet the minimum requirements for the state in question, including being at least 51 percent controlled or owned by minorities or women.
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Obtain a minority business registration application from the state's official website or local business agency location.
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Input all information relevant to your business. Have all the owners sign and date the completed application.
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Mail the application. Include any requested supporting documents, which may include a photocopy of a government-issued ID for each owner, the last federal tax return and organizational document for business.
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Receive your minority business documents by mail from the governing organization office after all your submitted documents have been reviewed.
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Tips & Warnings
Keep a copy of all information sent, because it will not usually be returned.
Some states offer an online minority business registration application on the secretary of state's website.
These instructions may vary, depending on your state. For the most current information regarding minority business registration in your state, contact your secretary of state office (see Resources).
References
Resources
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