DOBE Certification for Facilities & Janitorial Companies
Complete guide to Disability-Owned Business Enterprise certification for facilities & janitorial businesses — requirements, documents, corporate programs, and federal contracting opportunities.
Why DOBE Certification Matters for Facilities & Janitorial Companies
For businesses that are at least 51% owned by individuals with disabilities.
For facilities & janitorial businesses, DOBE 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 DOBE-certified suppliers in facilities & janitorial.
Facilities and janitorial services is one of the strongest sectors for diverse supplier participation. Here's why certification matters: **Frequent Small Business Set-Asides**: NAICS 561720 (Janitorial Services) is one of the most small-business-friendly codes in federal contracting, with frequent set-asides for 8(a), WOSB/EDWOSB, SDVOSB, and HUBZone businesses. The SBA size standard allows firms up to $22 million in annual revenue, making set-asides accessible to growing companies. **Recurring Contract Revenue**: Facilities and janitorial contracts are typically multi-year (base year plus option years), providing stable, recurring revenue. Federal contracts often run 5 years total, and corporate contracts are similarly long-term. **Every Facility Needs Service**: Unlike specialized industries, every office building, hospital, courthouse, military installation, and campus needs cleaning and maintenance. This creates a massive, diversified customer base. **Low Capital Requirements**: Compared to construction or manufacturing, entry barriers are relatively low. You need trained staff, basic equipment, and insurance—not heavy machinery or factories. **AbilityOne Program**: The AbilityOne Program is the largest source of employment for people who are blind or have significant disabilities, using federal purchasing power to buy services from qualifying nonprofits. Understanding this program helps diverse suppliers identify adjacent opportunities.
DOBE Eligibility Requirements
Must be at least 51% owned by individuals with a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits major life activities.
To qualify for DOBE certification: **Disability Status:** - Owner must have a disability as defined by the ADA - Physical, sensory, mental, or cognitive disabilities qualify - Service-connected and non-service-connected disabilities qualify **Ownership Requirements:** - 51% owned by one or more persons with disabilities - Owners must be U.S. citizens **Control Requirements:** - Disability owner(s) must control daily operations - Must make long-term business decisions
Required Documents for DOBE
| Document | Status | How to Obtain |
|---|---|---|
| Business Tax Returns (3 Years) | Required | Request copies from your accountant or download from IRS.gov using Form 4506-T. |
| Organizational Chart | Required | Create using tools like Lucidchart, Microsoft Visio, or PowerPoint. |
| Government-Issued Photo ID | Required | If expired, visit your local DMV or apply for passport renewal at usps.com or travel.state.gov. |
| Affidavit of Ownership | Required | Each certifying body provides their own form. Download from their website or request. |
| Operating Agreement or Bylaws | Required | Draft with an attorney or use a legal template service. Must reflect current ownership accurately. |
| Existing Certification Copies | Recommended | From your certification files or download from the certifying body's portal. |
| Bank Statements (6-12 Months) | Recommended | Download from your online banking portal or request from your bank. |
| Certificate of Good Standing | Recommended | Request from your state's Secretary of State office. Most states offer instant online certificates. |
How to Apply for DOBE as a Facilities & Janitorial Business
- **Step 1: Contact Disability:IN**
- Reach out to begin the certification process.
- **Step 2: Complete Application**
- Provide business and disability information.
- **Step 3: Submit Documentation**
- Upload required business and personal documents.
- **Step 4: Pay Fee**
- Fees typically $250-$500.
- **Step 5: Review**
- Disability:IN reviews your application.
- **Step 6: Certification**
- Receive DOBE certification upon approval.
Facilities & Janitorial Corporate Programs Accepting DOBE
These companies have facilities & janitorial supplier diversity programs that accept DOBE certification:
JPMorgan Chase
JPMorgan Chase is committed to building a diverse supply chain. We actively seek partnerships with minority, women, veteran, LGBTQ+, and disability-owned businesses.
View program details →Delta Air Lines
Delta is committed to building a diverse supplier base that reflects the communities we serve around the world.
View program details →Marriott International
Marriott has been a leader in supplier diversity in the hospitality industry. We value diverse partnerships that enhance our guest experience.
View program details →Need Help Getting DOBE Certified?
Our CertifyAll service handles your entire DOBE application — documents, forms, and submission — for a flat $399 fee.
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Take the Certification QuizGovernment Facilities & Janitorial Opportunities
**Federal Opportunities** Key agencies purchasing janitorial and facilities services: - **General Services Administration (GSA)**: Manages federal buildings nationwide, over $1.4B in Facilities category sales via GSA Schedule in FY2024 - **Department of Veterans Affairs (VA)**: Hundreds of VA hospitals and clinics needing daily custodial and facilities services - **Department of Defense (DoD)**: Military installations, barracks, offices, and training facilities - **US Postal Service (USPS)**: Thousands of post offices requiring cleaning and maintenance **Contract Vehicles** - GSA Multiple Award Schedule (MAS) - Facilities Category - Agency-specific Blanket Purchase Agreements (BPAs) - IDIQ (Indefinite Delivery/Indefinite Quantity) contracts for ongoing services - 8(a) sole-source contracts up to $4.5 million **Set-Aside Opportunities** NAICS 561720 has extensive small business set-asides: - Total Small Business set-asides - 8(a) competitive and sole-source - WOSB and EDWOSB set-asides - SDVOSB set-asides (especially at the VA) - HUBZone set-asides **State and Local** State buildings, public schools, universities, transit systems, and municipal buildings all contract for janitorial and facilities services, often with diverse supplier goals.