Become a District of Columbia Certified Business Enterprise and Get a Leg Up on the Competition

Are you a District of Columbia small or local business? Are you a business owner who is a member of a socially or economically disadvantaged class? If so, read this guide to learn how you can take advantage of a District program to get certified as a Certified Business Enterprise ("CBE").

1. What is a D.C. Certified Business Enterprise?

   A D.C. CBE is a business enterprise that has been certified by the Department of Small and Local Business Development. A CBE has its principal office physically located within the District of Columbia and its highest level management staff operate from that location. The business also satisfies 1 of the following 4 requirements: it maintains more than 50% of its assets in the District OR more than 50% of the business's employees are residents of the District OR the owners of more than 50% of that business are residents of the District OR more than 50% of the business's total sales are derived from transactions in the District.

2. What are the advantages of CBE certification?

   CBEs receive preference in procurement opportunities with the District. This means that, if a CBE submits a response to a District of Columbia Government Request for Proposal or Request for Qualifications, a business's status as a CBE will give it an advantage in the District's review of its response as compared to non-CBE responders.

3. What are the types of CBEs?

   There are several types of CBEs. Among the most common include: (i) Local Business Enterprise, (ii) Small Business Enterprise, (iii) Disadvantaged Business Enterprise, and (iv) Resident Owned Business. Each type has some requirements in addition to the basic CBE requirements.

4. How do I submit an application for certification as a D.C. CBE?

   All new applicants (and applicants whose renewal period has been expired for a year or more) must first attend what is known as a pre-certification orientation. This 2 hour orientation is designed to acclimate applicants to the CBE process. After you've attended the orientation session, register your business with the Department of Small and Local Business Development to access the online application, including the checklist of required items.

5. How long will my application take to be approved?

   If there are no additional materials required, applications are typically approved within 45-60 days from the date submitted.