Eligibility: Small Business Certification Program

Learn about eligibility requirements for S/MBE supplier diversity certification

Is your business eligible?

To be eligible for Small Business Enterprise (SBE) certification, your business must be based in Connecticut, independently owned and operated, and registered as a small business in the System for Award Management (SAM).

Small businesses owned be a person(s) with minority status may also qualify for Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) certification. Review the full eligibility requirements below.

Certification Eligibility

Small Business Enterprise (SBE)

To apply for certification, a business must meet all SBE requirements:

  • Principal place of business located in Connecticut
  • Meets the threshold as a small business:
    • For-profits must be registered for All Awards as a small business in the System for Award Management (SAM).
    • Not-for-profits’ revenue may not exceed $20M in the most recently completed fiscal year.
  • Independent: Viability of the company must not depend upon another person or business regarding the provision of personnel, facilities, equipment, financial support including bonding, and other resources.

 

Minority Business Enterprise (MBE)

Businesses that meet all SBE requirements may also qualify for MBE certification if at least 51% of the company’s capital stock or assets are owned by a person(s) who meets the following: 

  • Exercises operational authority over daily affairs of the business, including management and policies
  • Receives the beneficial interest of the business
  • Possesses managerial and technical competence and experience directly related to the principal business activities of the company
  • Has minority status as defined in statute C.G.S. 32-9n, including members of racial or ethnic minorities, women, and persons with a disability