I wanted to point out that:
1. In addition to states, local municipalities (cities, counties) also have their own certification programs;
2. State agencies typically certify for state contracts, not for local governments (cities, counties only accept state certifications when they have a reciprocal agreement, which many do not)
3. The National Association of Women Business Owners does NOT certify WBES, rather it’s a great organization that advocates on behalf of women;
4. The Federal WOSB/EDWOSB certification laws have changed – self-certification will no longer be accepted, but they will start accepting state certifications. This change will take effect when the SBA issues the new guidelines.
5. Although WBE/WOSB/EDWOSB certification is definitely a badge to proudly advertise, if the women business owners are not properly marketing, networking and building relationships with their target market, it doesn’t make sense to go through the time and expense to get the business certified. WBE/Minority/Small Business certification is not for everybody. Being certified does not guarantee that your business will be awarded contracts. Record of performance is key. A Capability Statement is a must.

I urge any women business owners interested in entering the Federal Contracting arena to join Women Impacting Public Policy (WIPP), a nonprofit organization that works hard to change the contracting laws to help women. Also, WIPP and AmericanExpress OPEN have teamed up to provide FREE online training focused on Federal Contracting for WBES (http://www.giveme5.com/list-of-courses). As a member of WIPP you’ll have access to the more advanced courses, they are available 24/7.

Thank you and much luck to all!