WOSB Certification for Construction & Trades Companies

Why WOSB Certification Matters for Construction & Trades Companies

Federal certification for businesses at least 51% owned and controlled by women.

For construction & trades businesses, WOSB certification opens doors to corporate supplier diversity programs and federal contracting opportunities specifically targeting this sector. Many Fortune 500 companies and government agencies have dedicated spending goals for WOSB-certified suppliers in construction & trades.

Construction is one of the most certification-driven industries. Here's why it matters: **Federal Requirements**: The Department of Transportation requires state DOTs to award a percentage of federally-funded contracts to Disadvantaged Business Enterprises (DBEs). This creates billions in set-aside opportunities annually. **Tier 1 Subcontracting**: Major general contractors like Turner, Skanska, and Gilbane have aggressive diversity goals. They actively seek certified diverse subcontractors to meet their contractual obligations on large projects. **Bonding Advantages**: Many certification programs offer bonding assistance and surety support, helping smaller contractors qualify for larger projects. **State and Local Set-Asides**: Most states have MBE/WBE goals for public construction projects, creating additional opportunities beyond federal contracts. The construction industry awarded over $45 billion to diverse contractors in the last fiscal year, making it one of the largest opportunity areas for certified diverse businesses.

WOSB Eligibility Requirements

51% owned by women citizens, women control management and daily operations, meets SBA size standards.

To qualify for WOSB certification: **Ownership Requirements:** - At least 51% unconditionally and directly owned by one or more women - Women owners must be U.S. citizens **Control Requirements:** - Women must control management and daily operations - Women must make long-term decisions - Women must hold highest officer position **Size Requirements:** - Must be a small business under SBA size standards for your NAICS code

How to Apply for WOSB as a Construction & Trades Business

1. **Step 1: Register in SAM.gov**
2. Complete SAM.gov registration (required for all federal contracting).
3. **Step 2: Create SBA Profile**
4. Set up your profile at certify.sba.gov.
5. **Step 3: Complete WOSB Application**
6. Provide business and ownership information.
7. **Step 4: Upload Documents**
8. Submit required documentation.
9. **Step 5: Certification Decision**
10. SBA reviews and issues decision within 90 days.

Government Construction & Trades Opportunities

**Federal Opportunities** The federal government is the largest buyer of construction services. Key agencies include: - **Department of Transportation (DOT)**: Manages the DBE program for highway, transit, and airport construction - **Army Corps of Engineers**: Billions in civil works, military construction - **General Services Administration (GSA)**: Federal building construction and renovation - **Department of Defense**: Military base construction worldwide **How to Access**: Register in SAM.gov, get your NAICS codes certified, and monitor opportunities on SAM.gov and agency-specific portals. **State and Local** Every state has a transportation department with DBE requirements. Many also have state-funded MBE/WBE programs for building construction and public works.

Other Certifications for Construction & Trades Companies

WOSB Certification for Other Industries