New SBA Website Streamlines Processes for WOSB

In August, the Small Business Administration (SBA) launched a new website designed to streamline the application and certification process for small businesses owned by women. The new site, certify.SBA.gov, provides a portal where women-owned business contractors can file documentation electronically. Along with electronic forms, the site will include criteria checklists, and an online tool called “Am I Eligible?” to help small business owners figure out which contract program best suits their needs.

In a statement by Jerome Fletcher, GSA’s Associate Administrator for the Office of Small Business Utilization, he said, “Small businesses are essential to the nation’s economy

We recognize that doing business with the federal government is challenging even for major corporations. This new website will make it easier for small business owners to continue to secure government contracts.”

Woman-owned businesses receive little representation therefore, the WOSB, (Women Owned Small Business) program sets aside a number of federal contracts specifically for women-owned businesses. To meet the standards of the SBA, WOSBs must be 51% owned or controlled by one or more women who are U.S. citizens.

Coming to the site in 2017, the SBA will begin incorporating other WOSB programs, starting with the 8(a) Business Development Program this fall, followed by the HUBZone Program and Dynamic Small Business Search in the spring.

If you have questions about the SBA or WOSB, contact KDuncan & Company for more information.