Free tool
MBE Certification Eligibility Checker
Wondering if your business qualifies as a Minority Business Enterprise? Answer three quick questions and Sam will tell you, in plain English, whether MBE certification is worth pursuing — and where to get certified. No login, instant results.
MBE certification, explained
MBE certificationopens two doors: large companies' supplier-diversity programs, and state and local government contracts with minority-participation goals. It's separate from the federal set-asides — so it's worth knowing whether you qualify and which certifier matches the buyers you want.
- What is MBE certification?
- MBE — Minority Business Enterprise — is a certification used for corporate supplier-diversity programs and for state and local government contracting. The leading national private certifier is the NMSDC; many state and city governments run their own MBE programs. It is not a federal SBA set-aside.
- Who qualifies for MBE?
- A for-profit business at least 51% owned, operated, and controlled by one or more US citizens who are members of a recognized minority group — per NMSDC: Asian-Indian, Asian-Pacific, Black, Hispanic, or Native American. Ownership and control must be real and continuing, verified in review.
- How is MBE different from 8(a)?
- MBE is a private/state certification (NMSDC or a government program) used for corporate supplier diversity and state/local contracts — not a federal set-aside. 8(a) is the SBA's federal business-development program. If you want federal set-asides, look at 8(a); for corporate and state/local minority programs, MBE is the one.
- What does MBE certification cost?
- NMSDC certification charges a processing fee that varies by your regional council and company size. State and city government MBE programs are often free. Check the specific certifier for current fees.
Check your MBE eligibility
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