DOBE Certification for Manufacturing Companies
Complete guide to Disability-Owned Business Enterprise certification for manufacturing businesses — requirements, documents, corporate programs, and federal contracting opportunities.
Why DOBE Certification Matters for Manufacturing Companies
For businesses that are at least 51% owned by individuals with disabilities.
For manufacturing 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 manufacturing.
Manufacturing offers significant opportunities for certified diverse suppliers. Here's why certification matters: **OEM Requirements**: Major automotive companies (Ford, GM, Toyota) and aerospace companies (Boeing, Lockheed Martin) have aggressive diverse supplier targets. **Tier 1 Subcontracting**: Large Tier 1 suppliers must flow diversity requirements down the supply chain. **Made in USA**: Federal and corporate "Buy American" requirements create opportunities for domestic diverse manufacturers. **Supply Chain Resilience**: Post-pandemic, corporations are diversifying supply chains and seeking domestic diverse suppliers. **Long-term Contracts**: Manufacturing relationships tend to be longer-term than services, providing revenue stability. Automotive OEMs alone spend over $150 billion annually with suppliers, with significant portions targeted to diverse businesses.
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 Manufacturing 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.
Manufacturing Corporate Programs Accepting DOBE
These companies have manufacturing supplier diversity programs that accept DOBE certification:
Amazon
Amazon Supplier Diversity helps us build a more inclusive supply chain by partnering with businesses owned by minorities, women, veterans, LGBTQ+ individuals, and people with …
View program details →Apple Inc.
Apple is committed to increasing opportunity for diverse suppliers. We partner with businesses owned by minorities, women, veterans, LGBTQ+ individuals, and people with disabilities.
View program details →Boeing
Boeing is the world's largest aerospace company and a leading manufacturer of commercial jetliners, defense systems, and space technology. Their Supplier Diversity program has been …
View program details →General Motors
GM has been a leader in supplier diversity for over 50 years. We are committed to increasing opportunities for diverse businesses in the automotive supply …
View program details →Johnson & Johnson
Johnson & Johnson has been a leader in supplier diversity for over 25 years. We believe diverse suppliers drive innovation in healthcare.
View program details →Lockheed Martin
Lockheed Martin is the world's largest defense contractor with over $65 billion in annual revenue, primarily from U.S. government contracts. Their Supplier Diversity program actively …
View program details →Target Corporation
Target is committed to creating inclusive economic opportunities. We actively source from diverse suppliers to reflect the communities we serve.
View program details →Walmart Inc.
Walmart is the largest buyer from diverse suppliers in America. Our Supplier Inclusion program creates opportunities for businesses of all sizes.
View program details →CVS Health
CVS Health is committed to being a catalyst for change. Our supplier diversity program creates pathways for diverse businesses in healthcare retail and services.
View program details →Ford Motor Company
Ford has been a pioneer in supplier diversity since 1978. We are committed to building an inclusive supply chain that drives innovation.
View program details →General Dynamics
General Dynamics is a global aerospace and defense company with business segments including Aerospace (Gulfstream), Combat Systems, Information Technology, and Marine Systems (submarines and ships). …
View program details →Intel Corporation
Intel is committed to supplier diversity as a driver of innovation. We seek diverse partners across our global supply chain.
View program details →Northrop Grumman
Northrop Grumman is a leading global aerospace and defense technology company with significant government contracts in space systems, autonomous systems, cyber, and mission systems. They …
View program details →PepsiCo
PepsiCo is committed to driving equity through our supply chain. We invest in diverse suppliers who can help us grow sustainably.
View program details →Pfizer Inc.
Pfizer is committed to building an inclusive supply chain. We actively seek certified diverse suppliers in pharmaceutical and life sciences.
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.
Learn About CertifyAllNot Sure Which Certifications You Qualify For?
Take our free 2-minute quiz to find out which certifications match your manufacturing business.
Take the Certification QuizGovernment Manufacturing Opportunities
**Federal Manufacturing Opportunities** Key agencies purchasing manufactured goods: - **Department of Defense (DoD)**: Largest federal buyer of manufactured goods - **Defense Logistics Agency (DLA)**: Military supplies and equipment - **General Services Administration (GSA)**: Office products, furniture, equipment - **NASA**: Aerospace manufacturing and components **Key Requirements** - **Buy American Act**: Many federal purchases require domestic manufacturing - **Berry Amendment**: Certain DoD purchases must be 100% US-made - **CMMC**: Cybersecurity requirements for defense manufacturing **Small Business Set-Asides**: Manufacturing NAICS codes have specific size standards - many "small" manufacturers are substantial operations.