MWDBE
ABOUT MINORITY AND WOMEN BUSINESS ENTERPRISE
Fact: There are more than 500 certified minority and women owned firms in Allegheny County offering services that span from catering and contracting to web development and insurance. Minority and Women-owned companies are an integral part of the region’s economic resurgence.
CERTIFICATION
Certification is a review process designed to ensure that a small business is actually owned, controlled, and operated by the applicants. Most certifications are granted for Minority or Women owned businesses, Small Disadvantaged Businesses, and Underutilized businesses. There are several agencies that offer certification diverse business types. Allegheny County offers free certification through the PA UCP certification process. If you would like to take next steps in the certification process, schedule an appointment with a specialist today.
ALTERNATIVE FINANCING OPTIMAL FOR MWBES
Access to capital is an ongoing need for diverse entrepreneurs. These organizations provide access to capital for diverse companies in need of funding to start or expand their operations.
TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE AND SUPPORT FOR MWBES
These agencies provide technical support to entrepreneurs looking to start or grow a business.
Diversity Business Resource Center
MEMBERSHIP ORGANIZATIONS
A strong network is a key component in developing a successful business. These organizations offer membership benefits to strengthen companies and position them for market acceptance.
Eastern Minority Supplier Development Council
Women Business Enterprise Council
CORPORATE DIVERSITY SUPPLIER PROGRAMS
Few things are more important than diverse firms being able to build solid business relationships with local anchor institutions. These institutions commit to procuring goods and services from certified MWDBE firms. Check back for updates as this list will continue to grow. Registration information for diverse vendors and suppliers is provided at the links below.
DOING BUSINESS WITH GOVERNMENT
Contracting with the government is a critical component in ensuring the equitable growth and development of locally owned diverse firms. Several State and Local government agencies have an expressed policy around the utilization of Minority (MBE), Disadvantaged (DBE) and Women-owned (WBE) firms for professional and construction based contracts in excess of a certain amount.
For more information about the respective policies and procurement procedures of each agency, click the agency’s name below.
BID NOTIFICATIONS FOR LOCAL GOVERNMENT CONTRACTS
Register on the following sites to receive real-time notification of local bid and procurement opportunities.