Which one fits you?
| Comparison | MBE Certification | SBE Certification | Corporate Contract Ready |
|---|---|---|---|
| What it shows buyers | You’re a verified minority-owned business. | You’re a verified qualifying small business. | You understand corporate procurement and are ready to compete. |
| Who it’s for | Businesses at least 51% minority-owned, managed and controlled. | Qualifying small businesses. | Any Ohio business preparing for corporate contracts — certified or not. |
| Who issues it | NMSDC, through OMSDC. | OMSDC / OhioBGA, a DBA of OMSDC. | ProcuraFind, our independent partner. |
| Status | Available now | Coming 2027 | Available now |
| Next step | How to apply → | Learn more → | Learn about CCR → |
These work together. Corporate Contract Ready does not replace MBE or SBE Certification, and SBE Certification complements MBE Certification.
MBE Certification
Available nowMBE Certification verifies that your business is at least 51% owned, managed and controlled by one or more minority U.S. citizens. Since August 20, 2025, NMSDC manages national MBE certification, and applications and recertifications are submitted through the NMSDC Hub. OMSDC supports Ohio MBEs before, during and after certification.
SBE Certification
Coming 2027SBE Certification is a size-based credential for qualifying small businesses that complements MBE Certification rather than replacing it.
Corporate Contract Ready
Available nowCorporate Contract Ready is a credential — not a certification — offered through our partner ProcuraFind.
It’s exam-based and covers enterprise procurement, supplier risk, compliance and contracting, and it identifies the gaps to close before you bid.
It also includes a resource directory.
- 112scenario questions
- 2 hrstimed online exam
- 2 yrscredential validity
ProcuraFind is an independent partner, and the credential does not guarantee contracts.