Key takeaways
- Women-owned businesses see continuous growth and contribute substantially to the U.S. economy’s employment rates and revenue. They also reinforce gender diversity and challenge traditional norms.
- A woman-owned business certification offers numerous advantages, including access to government and corporate contracts, networking opportunities, and enhanced brand credibility. You can obtain certification through self-certification via the SBA or third-party organizations.
- The certification process involves demonstrating that the business is woman-owned and that women actively manage its operations.
- While self-certification is available through the SBA, third-party certification may offer additional benefits and competitive advantages.
Businesses owned by women are still making a big impact today. According to the 2024 Wells Fargo Impact of Women-Owned Business Report, the rapid growth in women-led companies started in 2019 and continued despite the pandemic. At the time, they created 1.4 million employment opportunities and contributed $579.6 billion in revenue to the economy.
These women-led businesses drive economic growth while also showing the importance of diverse perspectives. They’re breaking down old barriers and making way for new ideas and opportunities for the future.
If you’re a woman business owner, getting certified as a woman-owned business is an important step for your company. This official recognition, supported by well-known groups, comes with many benefits.
The federal government, many big corporations, and many state and local governments have diversity programs that require them to award a certain percentage of their contracts to women-owned companies. Getting certified opens you up to these opportunities.
The process of certification isn’t a piece of cake; it requires time, dedication, and application fees. But don’t worry, this article is here to guide you through the process.
What is a Woman-Owned Small Business (WOSB) certification?
The Women-Owned Small Business (WOSB) certification is a program created by the Small Business Administration (SBA). Its main goal is to ensure that at least 5% of federal contracting dollars go to women-owned small businesses. Additionally, a subset of this certification is for Economically Disadvantaged Women-Owned Small Businesses (EDWOSB).
In January 2025, the SBA awarded over $26 million to further support women entrepreneurs. This funding will help create 13 new Women’s Business Centers (WBCs) and bolster 17 existing ones, which expands the network to a record 168 centers nationwide.
These centers offer resources like mentoring, training, and counseling to help women build their businesses. This year’s grants also focus on specialized support for childcare businesses and women-owned companies seeking government contracts.
The SBA is also launching new resources, including support for rural communities and virtual WBCs, to make them more accessible to women across the country.
The Women’s Business Enterprise National Council, the National Women Business Owners Corp., the U.S. Women’s Chamber of Commerce, and the El Paso Hispanic Chamber of Commerce are four nationwide organizations that the SBA has approved as third-party certifiers.
Visit their websites to see the types of certifications they offer, associated costs, and other programs that may benefit you.
These may include listings in the organizations’ databases of women-owned businesses or access to matchmaking events and trade shows. Organizations put these networking events together to help women find contracting opportunities.
What do I need to get certified as a woman-owned business?
While certification requirements may vary slightly depending on the type of certification you’re seeking, you’ll typically be required to prove that a woman or women are the majority owner/s of the business (i.e., own at least 51% or more of the company).
The woman or women should also be able to show direct involvement in the business’ daily operations. To be clear, if a woman holds 51% ownership on paper but doesn’t actively participate in its daily operations, then a business doesn’t qualify as woman-owned.
If your business is less than a year old, you’ll want to wait a while to apply for a women-owned business certification. This is because you’ll generally need to show a track record of success, including financial statements and prior years’ tax returns.
How to get certified as a woman-owned business?
There are two ways to be certified as a woman-owned business:
Self-certification
If you’re looking for a free method, go for self-certification through the SBA. To self-certify, your business should meet the following requirements:
- Be a small business according to SBA size standards
- Be at least 51% owned and controlled by women who are U.S. citizens
- Have women managing day-to-day operations and making long-term decisions
Follow these steps to get certified as a woman-owned business through the SBA:
Step 1: Check your eligibility
Go to WOSB.Certify.sba.gov, and click Should I Apply? next to the Home button. On the new page, scroll to the bottom and answer questions in the About your business section.
This will help you determine whether you’re eligible to apply for the WOSB certification.
Step 2: Register in the System for Award Management (SAM)
The System for Award Management (SAM) is a platform for entities who wish to do business with the U.S. government. Registering at SAM.gov allows you to apply for federal contracts like the WOSB program.
After registering, you’ll receive your SAM Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) and Marketing Partner Identification Number (MPIN). You’ll need both information during your application process.
Step 3: Create an SBA account
You need to create an SBA account to start your WOSB certification application. Go back to WOSB.Certify.sba.gov and scroll to the bottom of the home page. Click Login, then select Create an account. Fill in the necessary information, accept the terms and conditions, and hit Submit.
Step 4: Follow SBA’s WOSB quick start guide
Check out the WOSB quick start guide where you’ll find more detailed instructions related to your application. The document includes guidance on filling out and submitting your application, and other helpful information.
If your application is approved, you’ll be issued a WOSB certificate. This certificate is valid for three years.
Third-party certification
This is a more rigorous process, but it can give your business a competitive edge. You can get your certification through third-party organizations, including:
- Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC)
- National Women Business Owners Corporation (NWBOC)
- U.S. Women’s Chamber of Commerce (USWCC)
- El Paso Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (EPHCC)
To be certified by a third-party organization, you should meet their specific requirements, which may be more stringent than the SBA’s self-certification process.
Depending on the organization certifying your business, they may visit your place of business and/or conduct an in-person interview with you. After submitting your application, the certification process can take several months, assuming your application documentation is complete.
Once certified, market your business with pride. Be sure to emphasize your certification on your website and in your marketing materials. Showcase your WOSB certificate on your social media platforms to entice potential customers to do business with you. and be sure to emphasize your certification on your website and in your marketing materials—you earned it!
Benefits of getting certified as a woman-owned business
Access to opportunities
Many corporations, government agencies, and organizations have supplier diversity programs that prioritize working with women-owned businesses. Certification enhances visibility and opens doors to lucrative contracts, partnerships, and procurement opportunities.
Competitive advantage
Being certified as a woman-owned business sets your company apart from competitors, particularly in industries where diversity and inclusion are valued. It can help attract clients, investors, and customers who prioritize supporting women-owned enterprises.
Networking and support
Certification provides access to networks, events, and resources specifically tailored for women entrepreneurs. These platforms offer valuable support, mentoring, and collaboration opportunities that promote knowledge-sharing and foster business relationships.
Brand reputation and credibility
Certification as a woman-owned business adds credibility and authenticity to your brand. It shows a dedication to gender diversity and inclusivity, which can attract socially conscious consumers and partners.
Studies conducted by the Keller Center for Research at Baylor University revealed that gender diversity (along with racial diversity) in an organization positively influences consumers’ perceptions of the company.
This means higher chances of increasing sales, expanding the customer base, and strengthening client relationships.
Financial incentives
Some government contracts and private organizations offer financial incentives, such as grants and funding programs, to certified women-owned businesses. These incentives can help drive growth and expansion.
For instance, WomensNet offers financial assistance to female entrepreneurs in the U.S. and Canada through the Amber Grant program. Every month, they award $10,000 grants each to three different categories of women-owned companies, including new ventures and small businesses.
Additionally, some of these monthly winners have the chance to receive a larger $25,000 grant at the end of the year. This grant is particularly beneficial for those just starting out, as there are no business age restrictions.
Advocacy and recognition
The certification strengthens the visibility and recognition of women entrepreneurs. It allows you to participate in advocacy efforts and initiatives that support women-owned businesses and gender equality.
However, it’s important to note that the specific benefits may vary depending on the industry, location, and certification agency. It’s advisable to research and understand the requirements and advantages associated with certification before making a decision.
Grow your company with a Woman-Owned Small Business certification
Getting certified as a woman-owned business can open up many opportunities, including access to government contracts, partnerships, and procurement opportunities. It can also give your business a competitive advantage, networking and support, brand reputation and credibility, financial incentives, and advocacy and recognition.
Level up the playing field and grow your business by getting certified. It’s an investment that will pay off in the long run.
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