State certification can open doors to public contracts. Here is the process, in plain English, and where to get help with the paperwork.
Ohio's state certification programs, including Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) and Encouraging Diversity, Growth and Equity (EDGE), are run by the Ohio Department of Administrative Services (DAS), Equal Opportunity Division. Certified firms can be counted toward state agencies' goals for working with diverse businesses, which can put you in front of buyers you would otherwise never reach.
MBE is for businesses owned and controlled by qualifying minority individuals. EDGE is a related program for socially and economically disadvantaged owners. Women-owned firms may look at WBE. The programs have different eligibility tests, so read the current rules rather than guessing.
ECDI notes that your business generally must have been operating for at least one year before applying, and that qualifying owners must hold and control the company. Expect questions about ownership percentage, who makes the decisions and who signs the checks.
Plan on formation documents, tax returns, ownership and capitalization records, financial statements and proof of the owner's role. Having these organized before you start is the single biggest time saver.
Applications are filed with DAS, Equal Opportunity Division. ECDI reports the state charges no application fee.
ECDI reports review takes about 45 to 60 business days. If DAS asks follow-up questions, answer quickly; delays usually come from incomplete packets.
Certification is not forever. Rule changes effective October 2020 set recertification requirements, so calendar your renewal as soon as you are approved.
Confirm before you rely on it: Eligibility tests, fee, timeline and recertification cycle on the DAS Equal Opportunity Division site. Fees, rules and deadlines change. Check the official site before you file or pay.
Several Ohio organizations will walk you through the application, including certification and compliance resources in our directory and the Ohio organizations that specialize in minority-owned businesses. After you are certified, ask them how to find buyers. Certification opens the door; relationships get you the contract.