DOBE Certification for Professional Services Companies
Complete guide to Disability-Owned Business Enterprise certification for professional services businesses — requirements, documents, corporate programs, and federal contracting opportunities.
Why DOBE Certification Matters for Professional Services Companies
For businesses that are at least 51% owned by individuals with disabilities.
For professional services 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 professional services.
Professional services is the fastest path to contracting for many diverse businesses. Here's why certification matters: **Low Barriers to Entry**: Unlike manufacturing or construction, professional services require expertise rather than equipment or facilities. **High Demand**: Every organization needs professional services - consulting, staffing, legal, accounting, marketing. **GSA Schedule Access**: Professional services are well-suited for GSA Schedule contracts, opening federal opportunities. **Corporate Spending**: Fortune 500 companies spend billions annually on professional services with supplier diversity goals. **Subcontracting Opportunities**: Large consulting firms (Big 4, Accenture, etc.) actively seek diverse subcontractors. Professional services certifications can unlock opportunities in virtually every industry vertical.
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 Professional Services 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.
Professional Services Corporate Programs Accepting DOBE
These companies have professional services supplier diversity programs that accept DOBE certification:
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 →AT&T Inc.
AT&T has been a pioneer in supplier diversity since 1968. We are committed to ensuring diverse businesses have access to opportunities.
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 →Google (Alphabet Inc.)
Google is committed to building a diverse supply chain that reflects the communities we serve. We actively seek partnerships with certified diverse businesses.
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 →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 →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 →Microsoft Corporation
Microsoft believes diversity drives innovation. Our supplier diversity program ensures certified diverse businesses have equitable access to procurement opportunities.
View program details →Bank of America
Bank of America has spent over $2 billion annually with diverse suppliers. We invest in supplier development and mentorship.
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 →IBM
IBM has been a pioneer in supplier diversity since 1968. We believe diverse suppliers drive innovation and strengthen our business.
View program details →Leidos
Leidos is a FORTUNE 500 science and technology company providing solutions in defense, intelligence, civil, and health markets. With over $14 billion in annual revenue …
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 →RTX (Raytheon Technologies)
RTX Corporation (formerly Raytheon Technologies) is one of the largest aerospace and defense companies in the world, formed from the merger of Raytheon Company and …
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 professional services business.
Take the Certification QuizGovernment Professional Services Opportunities
**Federal Opportunities** Professional services are needed across all federal agencies: - **GSA Professional Services Schedule**: Gateway to government-wide opportunities - **Agency-Specific BPAs**: Blanket Purchase Agreements for ongoing needs - **Staff Augmentation**: IT staffing, administrative support, technical assistance - **Consulting**: Management consulting, strategy, program evaluation **Key Contract Vehicles** - GSA MAS (Multiple Award Schedule) - OASIS (complex professional services) - Alliant 2 (IT services) - Agency-specific IDIQs **8(a) Advantage**: Professional services are ideal for 8(a) sole-source contracts up to $4.5M (or $7M for manufacturing).