In a competitive market, standing out is crucial. Obtaining a Small Business Certification, Women Business Enterprise Certification, or a Service Disabled and Veteran Owned Business Certification differentiates your business and adds credibility, attracting potential partners. Join a respected network across the state by certifying your small business with SBAM.
Small Business Certification
Small businesses based in Michigan with fewer than 500 employees and annual gross revenues equal to or less than $25 million (or a three-year average of less than $20 million) are eligible for certification as “small” by the Small Business Association of Michigan. Securing this certification not only sets you apart from the competition but also opens doors to advancement opportunities.
Getting started is simple. First, purchase and complete your application through your organization record. A $100 application fee applies to all applicants but is waived for SBAM Elite members. Ensure the following documentation is attached to your application before submission:
- Copy of your Articles of Incorporation
- ONE of the following:
- Copies of tax documents showing total gross annual revenue for the past three years, OR
- A signed statement from your accountant on company letterhead, notarized by a Notary Public, detailing total gross annual revenue for the past three years. This statement must include total amounts and be notarized to be accepted.
Being certified as “small” through SBAM provides procurement opportunities with large organizations. Companies like Enbridge, Consumers Energy, and Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan are committed to partnering with certified small Michigan providers.
Once your application has been approved, you will receive a certificate and a logo for use on your organization website and in your email signature.
Women Business Enterprise Certification
Women Business Enterprise (WBE) certification is one of the most widely recognized certifications in the nation. Accepted by numerous corporations and various federal, state, and local government agencies, WBE certification is a vital marketing tool for enhancing visibility among decision-makers in corporate supply chain diversity and procurement.
To be eligible, your organization must be an independent business at least 51% owned and controlled by one or more women who are U.S. citizens or legal resident aliens; whose business formation and principal place of business are in the U.S. or its territories; and whose management and daily operations are led by a woman with industry expertise. Note that WBE certification applies to the business, not the individual.
SBAM has partnered with the Great Lakes Women’s Business Council to offer Basic, Premium, VIP, and Elite members a special $100 savings on WBE certification.
Becoming a WBE grants you access to extensive resources from the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC), including:
- A business listing in the WBENC link, viewable by over 1,000 national corporate members for sourcing.
- Opportunities to participate in free training and coaching programs offered by WBENC corporate members.
- An invitation to the WBENC annual conference, the largest women’s business conference in the country, attracting over 6,000 attendees.
Service Disabled and Veteran Owned Business Certification
The Service Disabled and Veteran Owned Business (SD/VOB) certification from the National Veteran Business Development Council (NVBDC) opens doors to valuable diversity spend opportunities by being recognized and accepted across industries. Businesses with this certification receive access to contracts with state and federal agencies and major corporations.
SBAM has partnered with the NVBDC to offer Basic, Premium, VIP and Elite members a special $100 savings on their SD/VOB certification! To get started, complete the member request form and begin the process through the NVBDC. If you have questions about your eligibility or the application, please contact sbam@sbam.org.
Obtaining any of these certifications not only helps your organization stand out to potential customers but also unlocks a variety of professional development, networking, and partnership opportunities. To learn more about these certifications, visit our website or contact Sherry Bryan, Director of Strategic Partnerships & Certification, at sherry.bryan@sbam.org.
Click here for more News & Resources.