MBE Certification for Facilities & Janitorial Companies
Complete guide to Minority Business Enterprise certification for facilities & janitorial businesses — requirements, documents, corporate programs, and federal contracting opportunities.
Why MBE Certification Matters for Facilities & Janitorial Companies
For businesses that are at least 51% owned, operated, and controlled by one or more minority group members.
For facilities & janitorial businesses, MBE 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 MBE-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.
MBE Eligibility Requirements
Must be at least 51% owned by minority individuals (African American, Hispanic American, Asian American, Native American, or Asian-Pacific American).
To qualify for MBE certification, your business must meet these requirements: **Ownership Requirements:** - At least 51% owned, operated, and controlled by U.S. citizens who are members of one or more of these ethnic groups: - African American - Hispanic American - Native American (including Alaska Natives) - Asian-Pacific American - Asian-Indian American **Control Requirements:** - Minority owner(s) must have day-to-day operational control - Minority owner(s) must make independent business decisions - Management responsibilities cannot be delegated to non-minority individuals **Business Requirements:** - Must be a for-profit enterprise - Must be operational and have been in business for at least one year (some councils waive this) - Must demonstrate that the business is a going concern - Cannot be a franchise unless the franchisor is also minority-owned
Required Documents for MBE
| Document | Status | How to Obtain |
|---|---|---|
| Organizational Chart | Required | Create using tools like Lucidchart, Microsoft Visio, or PowerPoint. |
| Business Tax Returns (3 Years) | Required | Request copies from your accountant or download from IRS.gov using Form 4506-T. |
| Government-Issued Photo ID | Required | If expired, visit your local DMV or apply for passport renewal at usps.com or travel.state.gov. |
| Personal Tax Returns (3 Years) | Required | From your tax preparer or IRS.gov. All owners with 10%+ ownership typically need to provide. |
| Affidavit of Ownership | Required | Each certifying body provides their own form. Download from their website or request. |
| Birth Certificate | Required | Request from the vital records office in your birth state. Many states offer online ordering through vitalchek.com. |
| Operating Agreement or Bylaws | Required | Draft with an attorney or use a legal template service. Must reflect current ownership accurately. |
| Bank Statements (6-12 Months) | Required | Download from your online banking portal or request from your bank. |
| Lease Agreement or Deed | Required | From your landlord (lease) or county recorder's office (deed). |
| Existing Certification Copies | Recommended | From your certification files or download from the certifying body's portal. |
| Stock Certificates or Membership Certificates | Recommended | Issue through your corporate records. Consult your attorney if not previously issued. |
| Business Financial Statements | Recommended | Generate from your accounting software or have your accountant prepare. |
| Certificate of Good Standing | Recommended | Request from your state's Secretary of State office. Most states offer instant online certificates. |
How to Apply for MBE as a Facilities & Janitorial Business
- **Step 1: Find Your Regional Council**
- NMSDC certification is processed through regional affiliate councils. Visit nmsdc.org to find the council serving your state.
- **Step 2: Create an Online Account**
- Register on your regional council's portal and complete the pre-application questionnaire.
- **Step 3: Complete the Application**
- Fill out the full application with detailed business information. Be thorough and accurate.
- **Step 4: Upload Documents**
- Scan and upload all required documentation. Missing documents delay processing.
- **Step 5: Pay Application Fee**
- Fees typically range from $350-$650 depending on your regional council and company size.
- **Step 6: Site Visit**
- A council representative will conduct an on-site visit to verify business operations. This typically happens 30-60 days after application submission.
- **Step 7: Certification Decision**
- After the site visit, the certification committee reviews your application. Expect a decision within 60-90 days of a complete application.
Facilities & Janitorial Corporate Programs Accepting MBE
These companies have facilities & janitorial supplier diversity programs that accept MBE 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 →U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA)
The VA is the second-largest federal agency and has a special mission to support veteran-owned businesses. Under the Veterans First Contracting Program, VA gives priority …
View program details →U.S. General Services Administration (GSA)
GSA is the federal government's primary procurement agency, managing over $75 billion in annual spending. GSA Schedule contracts (now called Multiple Award Schedule or MAS) …
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 →Hilton Worldwide
Hilton is committed to creating opportunities for diverse suppliers who share our passion for hospitality excellence.
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 →New York City
New York City has a robust M/WBE program with a 30% participation goal. The city certifies businesses and provides access to billions in contracting opportunities …
View program details →Port Authority of NY/NJ
The Port Authority manages JFK, LaGuardia, Newark airports, PATH, bridges, tunnels, and the World Trade Center. Major capital programs include: - Airport modernization (JFK, EWR, …
View program details →State of California
California has one of the most robust state supplier diversity programs in the nation. Key certifications: - Small Business (SB) - certified by DGS - …
View program details →State of New York
New York has one of the most aggressive MWBE (Minority and Women-owned Business Enterprise) programs in the nation, with a 30% goal. Key programs: - …
View program details →Wells Fargo
Wells Fargo is committed to building mutually beneficial relationships with certified diverse suppliers who share our commitment to excellence.
View program details →Need Help Getting MBE Certified?
Our CertifyAll service handles your entire MBE application — documents, forms, and submission — for a flat $399 fee.
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**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.