MBE certification application assistance

If you’re in Minnesota/Twin Cities, yes—there are organizations that can help you prepare and navigate an MBE certification application.

Best places to start

• Meda Metropolitan Development Association (MEDA) — This is probably my first recommendation. MEDA provides certification assistance and procurement/business-development support for minority-owned businesses. Minnesota’s own business guide identifies MEDA as a source of minority supplier assistance.www.lrl.mn.gov

• Small Business Assistance Office (Minnesota DEED) — They provide one-on-one guidance and can connect you with the appropriate certification and procurement resources. Their consultants can be reached at 651-556-8425 or [email protected].mn.gov

• Contract & Analysis Department / City of Saint Paul — Saint Paul participates in the CERT (Central Certification) Program, which includes MBE certification and is recognized by Saint Paul, Minneapolis, Ramsey County and Hennepin County.www.lrl.mn.gov+2

• IMNovateHP PRO — A Saint Paul consulting organization focused on helping minority/underserved businesses with government contracting and certification pathways.

If you're applying for the Twin Cities CERT MBE

Minnesota's Small Business Certification Portal is the starting point. The portal lets you apply for CERT (SBE/MBE/WBE) and indicates that one application can cover the participating CERT agencies.sbcp.mn.gov

Start the Minnesota certification application

My recommendation: Before you submit anything, have MEDA or another certification counselor review your ownership documents, tax returns/financials, organizational documents, and the application. That can help avoid delays or requests for additional documentation.

If you tell me what type of business you have and whether you want MBE for state contracts, City of St. Paul/Minneapolis contracts, corporate supplier diversity, or all of them, I can identify the exact certification you should pursue and who can help you complete it.