Certification

Learn about diversity programs for suppliers.

Central Certification Program (CERT)

Overview

CERT includes certification for:

  • Minority Business Enterprises (MBEs)
  • Women's Business Enterprises (WBEs)
  • Small Business Enterprises (SBEs)

It is managed by the City of St. Paul and recognized by:

  • City of St. Paul
  • Ramsey County
  • Hennepin County

Learn more

Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE)

 

Overview

DBEs are at least 51% owned and controlled by a socially and economically disadvantaged individual.

DBE certification is:

  • Accepted by the City of Minneapolis’ Small and Underutilized Business Program (SUBP)
  • Recognized by the:
    • Minnesota Department of Transportation
    • Metropolitan Airports Commission, Metropolitan Council
    • City of Minneapolis

Learn more

LGBT Business Enterprise (LGBTBE)

Overview

An LGBTE is at least 51% owned, operated, managed, and controlled by a person (or persons) who is lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender.

The owner(s) must be U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents.

The business must:

  • Be independent from any non-LGBT business enterprise
  • Have its principal place of business in the United States

Learn more

Minority Business Enterprise (MBE)

Overview

An MBE is at least 51% owned by a U.S. citizen who is:

  • Asian
  • Black or African American
  • Latino
  • Native American

Contact the North Central Minority Supplier Diversity Council (NCMSDC) to certify your business

Learn more

Office of Equity in Procurement (OEP)

Overview

The Minnesota OEP operates a program for small businesses whose owners are:

  • Members of a targeted group (TG)
  • Economically disadvantaged (ED)
  • Veterans (VO)

OSP certifies businesses for this program.

Once a business is certified, it:

  • May receive up to a 6% preference in competing for contracts with the State of Minnesota
  • Can be counted toward supplier diversity goals set on subcontracting for larger projects

Learn more

Women's Business Enterprise (WBE)

Overview

A WBE is at least 51% owned, operated, and controlled by a woman or women.

Learn more

Contact us

Small Business Team

Community Planning & Economic Development

Phone

612-673-2499

Address

Public Service Building
505 Fourth Ave. S., Room 320
Minneapolis, MN 55415