DOBE Certification for Printing & Packaging Companies
Complete guide to Disability-Owned Business Enterprise certification for printing & packaging businesses — requirements, documents, corporate programs, and federal contracting opportunities.
Why DOBE Certification Matters for Printing & Packaging Companies
For businesses that are at least 51% owned by individuals with disabilities.
For printing & packaging 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 printing & packaging.
Printing and packaging offers steady, relationship-driven opportunities for diverse suppliers. Here's why certification matters: **Corporate Procurement Goals**: Studies show that companies allocating 20% or more of spending to diverse suppliers report 10-15% higher annual sales. This gives procurement managers a strong incentive to shift printing and packaging spend to certified diverse suppliers. **Xerox Alliance Program**: Xerox, a global leader in managed print services, operates a Supplier Connection Program that proactively identifies, builds relationships with, and procures goods and services from certified diverse businesses. Their Tier II program also encourages Xerox's own suppliers to subcontract to diverse firms. **Packaging Industry Leaders**: Companies like Graphic Packaging and WestRock (now Smurfit WestRock) have dedicated supplier diversity initiatives, seeking diverse suppliers across packaging materials, printing services, and logistics. **Every Company Prints**: Marketing collateral, product packaging, labels, business forms, direct mail, signage, and branded merchandise—every corporation has ongoing printing needs. These are recurring purchases that build long-term relationships. **Government Printing Office (GPO)**: The U.S. Government Publishing Office contracts with private sector printers for a significant portion of government printing needs, creating additional opportunities for certified diverse print companies. **Digital Transformation**: As printing evolves toward variable data printing, wide-format, and specialty applications, diverse suppliers can differentiate through technology adoption and niche capabilities.
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 Printing & Packaging 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.
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 Printing & Packaging Opportunities
**Federal Opportunities** Key agencies and programs for printing and packaging: - **U.S. Government Publishing Office (GPO)**: Contracts with private sector printers for government publications, forms, and materials - **Department of Defense (DoD)**: Military publications, training materials, packaging for defense logistics - **General Services Administration (GSA)**: Government-wide printing and publication services - **Department of Health & Human Services (HHS)**: Public health materials, Medicare publications **Key Contract Vehicles** - GPO Term Contracts (multi-year printing agreements) - GSA MAS for printing and publications services - Agency-specific printing BPAs - 8(a) sole-source contracts for printing services **Categories of Government Printing** - Forms and publications - Direct mail and outreach materials - Training manuals and guides - Signage and wayfinding - Packaging for military and government supplies - Variable data printing (personalized mailings) - Large-format printing (posters, banners) **State and Local** State agencies, school districts, and municipalities all contract for printing services. Many have diverse supplier preferences and set-aside programs.