Women-owned small business (WOSB) vs WBENC certification (women-owned, private sector)

At least 51 percent directly and unconditionally owned by one or more women who are U.S. citizens

The qualifying women owners must be U.S. citizens AND reside in the United States

The business and its owners must have no active exclusion in SAM at the time of application or recertification

At least 51 percent owned, controlled, operated, and managed by a woman or women

The woman owner(s) must have unrestricted control of the business, manage day-to-day operations, and make a proportionate investment of capital or expertise

The qualifying woman owner(s) must be a U.S. citizen or a lawful permanent resident

A woman must manage day-to-day operations and make long-term decisions, and hold the highest officer position

The business must be small under the size standard for a NAICS code listed in its SAM profile

Neither the business nor its principals may have unpaid significant financial obligations owed to the federal government

Certification is required for WOSB set-aside and sole-source awards; self-certification is not enough

Certification includes a review of your business documentation and a site visit or virtual interview

You submit corporate records and business and personal financial records, including signed federal tax returns

Provide proof of capital or equity investment by the female owner(s)

Provide business tax returns and financial statements

After you apply, you must notify SBA of any change that could affect eligibility