To obtain WBE/MBE/DBE certification, a company must be at least 51 percent owned by a woman, minority, or disadvantaged individual. Additionally, at least one woman, member of a qualifying minority, or disadvantaged individual must control the company’s management and daily business operations.
As simple as that may sound, many companies that apply for certification find themselves unpleasantly surprised when a certifying agency rejects their application. Issues with corporate structuring, ownership interests, board composition, or the delegation of day-to-day responsibilities can all lead to a denial or delay in processing an application, costing companies time, money, and opportunities.
At GHU, we prepare our clients for certification well before any paperwork is filed. With an abiding commitment to our clients’ success and the resources to help them reach their goals, we can help you:
- Understand applicable certification requirements;
- Evaluate your company’s current eligibility;
- Determine the appropriate WBE/MBE/DBE certifying agency for your application;
- Select, form, and document the necessary corporate ownership and management structure needed for a successful application;
- Prepare the application and all required documents and exhibits needed in support of certification;
- Respond to any requests for clarification or rejections by a certifying agency, including appealing any certification denial.
Because we are a full-service business law firm, we have the capabilities to address all of the underlying corporate issues that are often determinative in the WBE/MBE/DBE certification process. From corporate formation, to operational issues, to the myriad real estate, employment, tax, or insurance matters that intersect with our clients’ businesses, we give our construction clients a one-stop and unified source for all of their legal needs.