NMSDC MBE certification verifies that your company is at least 51% owned, managed, and controlled by minority U.S. citizens. It’s the national standard most widely used by corporate supply chains. Certified MBEs are listed in a national buyer-searchable database. You also get access to introductions, events, skill building, and business development programs. State or other local certifications serve different purposes. Many firms hold multiple certifications.
If corporate B2B growth is your goal, start here with NMSDC’s certification and OMSDC’s minority business support.
Local
business development, networking and skill building events, and connections to
corporate partners with open RFPs/RFQs in Ohio run through OMSDC. We’re here to
help you plug into the community and make the most of certification.
Connect with us at: Certification@OhioMSDC.org
Certification opens doors. It puts your business in front of companies and agencies that are actively growing inclusive supply chains—and in front of 17,000+ other MBEs for teaming and joint ventures.
Access real opportunities. Certification doesn’t guarantee a contract, but it does help you reach buyers who understand the business case for MBE spend.
To qualify as an MBE, your company must be:
Business types: Corporations, LLCs, partnerships, and sole proprietorships may qualify.
A publicly owned business may qualify when 51%+ of voting stock is held by qualified minority group members.
NMSDC confirms status through document review, screenings, interviews, and a site visit (as required).
In addition to MBE Certification, NMSDC supports minority run organizations through the following certification..
Minority Controlled Company (MCC) and Minority Publicly Controlled Company (MPC) serve firms that have taken on investment and no longer meet 51% ownership, but minority leaders still control governance and day-to-day management. These designations recognize growth with outside capital while maintaining minority control.
Investment Fund Company (IFC) is for minority-owned/controlled investment funds deploying capital to help MBEs scale.
Most businesses pursue MBE. If outside investment dropped minority ownership below 51% but control remains, consider MCC/MPC. Fund managers should explore IFC.
Not sure which path fits? Click the “Start New MBE Certification” button above and select your ownership/control scenario.
Typical review time: under 45 days for complete applications with prompt responses. Processing times can vary based on volume and completeness.
Fees: Fees vary by company size and region. For Ohio based MBEs the table below provides guidance on fees. Your exact fee appears inside your application after you enter your business details.
| Fee Category by Annual Revenue (millions) | Class 1 <$1m | Class 2 $1m - $9.9m | Class 3 $10m - $49.9m | Class 4 >$50m |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New Certification | $300 | $550 | $850 | $950 |
| Recertification | $250 | $500 | $800 | $900 |
Have these ready to speed things up:
Certification questions
Tech support (Hub login/issues)
Local
business development, networking and skill building events, and connections to
corporate partners with open RFPs/RFQs in Ohio run through OMSDC. We’re here to
help you plug into the community and make the most of certification.
Connect with us at: Certification@OhioMSDC.org
No. It increases visibility and access to active buyers and programs that help you compete, grow revenue/profitability, and scale.
Most complete applications are reviewed in under 45 days. Respond quickly to any requests to stay on track.
A U.S. citizen who is at least 25% Asian Indian, Asian Pacific, Black, Hispanic, or Native American.
Yes. Qualifying owners must be U.S. citizens. Permanent residents do not meet the MBE ownership requirement.
You may qualify under NMSDC’s Minority Controlled Company (MCC) or Minority Publicly Controlled Company (MPC) designations if minority leaders still control governance and day-to-day management. Start with the pre-qualification form and note your ownership/control structure.
No. NMSDC certification is a voluntary, mission-specific credential used by buyers to identify qualified diverse suppliers; it complements open competition and does not restrict anyone’s right to pursue contracts.
Corporations, LLCs, partnerships, and sole proprietorships may qualify, provided they meet NMSDC’s ownership, management, and control requirements.
Check your spam/junk folder and whitelist @nmsdc.org. If you still don’t see them, email thehubsupport@nmsdc.org.
Your documents are reviewed by approved certification staff and stored in NMSDC’s secure system. See the privacy policy inside The NMSDC Hub.
Log into The NMSDC Hub with the credentials sent by ZohoAdmin@nmsdc.org. Some in-progress applications may need to be restarted in the new system; your Hub dashboard will guide you.
NMSDC provides short extensions when needed to ensure you have time to submit in the Hub. Check your email and Hub notifications for specifics.
