Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC)
The Center for Women & Enterprise offers women business owners the ability to obtain formal status of their women-owned business through a variety of certifications. Certification allows businesses to bid on contracts as a women-owned business vendor in both the private sector and the public sector.
Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC) is the premiere private sector certification that gives women-owned businesses opportunities in the corporate bidding arena.
The Benefits of Certification
Certification is an important tool for expanding your company's visibility among decision-makers in corporate and government supply chains.
CWE has been instrumental in our growth, providing expert guidance through consultations and resources. They were extremely helpful in getting our WBENC certification. Their information sessions leading up to the WBENC conference prepared us for a successful show. Through CWE's network, we gained invaluable connections that have supported UNICORN's rapid expansion as a supplier to fortune 500 companies and government agencies.
Thyme Sullivan & Denielle Finkelstein, UNICORN, Duxbury, MA
WBENC Certification Eligibility
WBENC Certification validates that a business is at least 51 percent owned, controlled, operated, and managed by a woman or women.
This means one or more women must have:
unrestricted control of the business
a demonstrated management of day-to-day operations, and
a proportionate investment of capital or expertise
To become certified, business owners undergo a thorough vetting process, including review of business documentation and a site visit.
Eligibility Criteria
Majority (at least 51%) ownership by one or more women
Demonstrated proof of woman management and control of business
Unrestricted woman's control of the business in legal documents and day-to-day operations
A woman holding the highest defined title in the company's legal documents
Documented evidence of woman's contribution of capital and/or industry expertise
Status of U.S. Citizenship or Lawful Permanent Resident for woman owner(s) constituting majority ownership
