Is Certification as a Women’s Business Enterprise Worth It for Your Business?

For women-owned businesses, obtaining certification as a Women’s Business Enterprise (WBE) can open doors to opportunities that might otherwise be out of reach. However, determining whether certification is worth the time and effort depends on your business goals, the industries you serve, and your ability to leverage the benefits certification offers. Here’s how to evaluate whether WBE certification is right for your business.

Understand the Benefits of Certification

Certification as a WBE can provide significant advantages, especially for businesses in industries where supplier diversity programs are prominent, such as government contracting, construction, and corporate supply chains. These benefits include:

• Access to Contracts: Many corporations and government agencies have quotas or goals for working with WBEs. Certification can make your business eligible for these opportunities.
• Networking and Support: WBEs gain access to events, resources, and communities designed to help women-owned businesses thrive.
• Marketing Edge: Certification distinguishes your business from competitors, demonstrating commitment to diversity and inclusion.

Assess Your Industry and Target Market

Consider whether your industry values supplier diversity. If your business is in a field where corporations or government agencies prioritize working with certified diverse suppliers, certification could give you a competitive edge. Conversely, if your clients are primarily individuals or small businesses, certification might not be as impactful.

Evaluate the Costs and Effort Involved

Obtaining WBE certification requires a significant investment of time and resources. The process typically involves providing documentation about your business’s ownership, control, and operations, as well as undergoing an on-site inspection. Fees vary depending on the certifying organization.

Additionally, once certified, maintaining certification requires annual renewals and continued compliance with program requirements.

Determine Your Capacity to Leverage Certification

Certification itself does not guarantee contracts or increased business—it’s a tool to help you compete. To make it worthwhile, your business must have the capacity to pursue new opportunities, respond to requests for proposals (RFPs), and deliver on contracts.

How to Decide

Ask yourself these questions:

1. Does my target market include corporations or government agencies with supplier diversity programs?
2. Do I have the resources to navigate the certification process and pursue opportunities it creates?
3. Will certification align with my long-term business goals?

If the answers point toward yes, WBE certification could be a valuable asset. On the other hand, if the benefits don’t align with your business’s needs or strategy, it may not be worth pursuing.

Take the time to evaluate your specific circumstances, and consider consulting with other certified businesses or a business attorney to ensure you make the best decision.