For minority-owned businesses looking to develop their business and unlock new opportunities, becoming a certified Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) can be a game-changer. However, there are many misconceptions about what MBE certification does and doesn’t offer. Let’s break it down:
What is MBE Certification?
MBE certification is a certification awarded to U.S. businesses that are at least 51% ethnic minority-owned, operated, and controlled. This certification is issued by the National Minority Supplier Development Council (NMSDC) and its local affiliates, such as the Northwest Mountain Minority Supplier Development Council. The purpose of MBE certification is to connect minority-owned businesses with corporate, government, public agency contracting opportunities, networking events, and business development resources. Read our blog post titled “What is MBE Certification?” for more information.
While MBE certification comes with numerous advantages, it’s important to have realistic expectations about what it does not guarantee:
| Key Benefits of MBE Certification: | What MBE Certification is NOT: |
| Exposure to Business Opportunities: Many corporations and government entities have supplier programs that seek out MBE-certified vendors. Through our events website, newsletter, and social media outlets, you can stay in the loop about upcoming opportunities. |
A Guarantee for Contracts: Certification does not mean that corporations or government agencies are required to do business with you, nor does it mean that companies will seek out doing business with you solely based on your ethnicity. Certification provides increased access to opportunities, but companies must still compete for contracts. |
| Access to Networking Events: Certification opens doors to exclusive networking events, matchmaking sessions, and trade fairs with potential clients and partners, such as corporate members and fellow MBEs. | A Replacement for Networking: Having MBE certification and being featured in the database are facilitators, but businesses still need to attend our networking opportunities and put in the work to get business. |
| Educational and Training Programs: The NWMMSDC offers workshops and support for mentorship programs to help MBEs grow. By following the NWMMSDC’s social media outlets and subscribing to our newsletter, you can stay in the loop about events, opportunities, and resources that can be very valuable for your business. | An Instant Solution to Business and Growth Challenges: While certification can provide valuable tools and resources, success still requires effort, attendance, and persistence. |
Is MBE Certification Right for Your Business?
MBE certification can be a valuable step in leveling up your business. However, success depends on how well you leverage the certification through networking at the provided opportunities, marketing, and business development strategies.
By understanding what MBE certification is and what it’s not, you can make an informed decision about whether MBE certification is the right fit for your business.
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More resources:
Why Certify Your Minority-Owned Business with the NWMMSDC?
Is Your Business Eligible for MBE Certification? Key Requirements You Need to Know
Everything You Need to Know About MBE Certification: Common FAQs Answered
Step-by-Step Guide for the MBE Certification Process: What You Need to Know
What is MBE Certification?
11 Key Reasons to Become a Sponsor for the NWMMSDC
Why Donate to the NWMMSDC?
7 Key Benefits of Becoming a Corporate Member with the NWMMSDC
Corporate Membership vs. Sponsorship with NWMMSDC: Which Is Right for Your Business?
What MBE Certification Is and What It Is Not
Ready to take the next step for your minority-owned business? Apply for certification here.
About the NWMMSDC
The Northwest Mountain MSDC, an affiliate of the National Minority Supplier Development Council (NMSDC), is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering minority-owned businesses by certifying, developing, and connecting Minority Business Enterprises (MBEs) with major corporations and public agencies.
Since 1978, the Council has been a driving force for advancing supplier programs and creating opportunities that enable minority-owned businesses to thrive. Serving the Pacific Northwest Mountain region—encompassing Alaska, Idaho, Montana, Oregon, Utah, Washington, and Wyoming—the NWMMSDC is committed to fostering meaningful business partnerships and driving economic growth.