DOBE Certification for IT & Technology Companies
Complete guide to Disability-Owned Business Enterprise certification for it & technology businesses — requirements, documents, corporate programs, and federal contracting opportunities.
Why DOBE Certification Matters for IT & Technology Companies
For businesses that are at least 51% owned by individuals with disabilities.
For it & technology 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 it & technology.
Technology is experiencing unprecedented demand for diverse suppliers. Here's why certification matters: **Federal IT Modernization**: The government is investing billions in cloud migration, cybersecurity, and digital services. Small business goals create massive opportunities for certified tech firms. **Corporate Digital Transformation**: Fortune 500 companies are actively seeking diverse tech vendors to meet their supplier diversity commitments. **Subcontracting Requirements**: Large IT prime contractors (Accenture, Deloitte, SAIC) have diversity goals they must meet on federal contracts. **Innovation Sourcing**: Many corporations specifically seek diverse tech startups for innovation and new capabilities. Federal IT spending exceeds $100 billion annually, with significant portions targeted to small and 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 IT & Technology 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.
IT & Technology Corporate Programs Accepting DOBE
These companies have it & technology 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 →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 →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 →McKesson
McKesson is a Fortune 8 healthcare company providing pharmaceuticals and medical supplies distribution, healthcare IT, and care management. They serve government healthcare programs including VA …
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 →Cisco Systems
Cisco is committed to building a diverse and inclusive supply chain that drives innovation.
View program details →Comcast Corporation
Comcast NBCUniversal is committed to building a diverse supply chain that reflects our commitment to equity and inclusion.
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 →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 →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 IT & Technology Opportunities
**Federal IT Opportunities** Key agencies buying technology: - **Department of Defense (DoD)**: Largest IT buyer, cybersecurity, software development - **Department of Homeland Security (DHS)**: Border technology, cybersecurity - **Department of Veterans Affairs (VA)**: Healthcare IT, EHR systems - **Civilian agencies**: Cloud services, modernization projects **Contract Vehicles** - GSA IT Schedule 70 (now MAS) - CIO-SP3/SP4 (small business specific) - Agency-specific BPAs and IDIQs - 8(a) STARS III **Compliance Requirements**: FedRAMP for cloud, CMMC for defense, various security clearance requirements.