Certifications

The 8(a) program is a robust, nine-year program created to help firms owned and controlled by a socially and economically disadvantaged individuals. Businesses that participate in the program receive training and technical assistance designed to strengthen their ability to compete effectively in the American economy.

The HUBZone program fuels the growth of small businesses in historically underutilized business zones (HUBZones) by providing certification for preferential access to federal contracts.

Certification with SBA allows service-disabled veteran-owned small businesses (SDVOSBs) to compete for federal sole-source and set-aside contracts across the federal government.

Certified veteran-owned small businesses (VOSBs) have additional opportunities to pursue sole-source and set-aside contracts at the US Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) under the VA’s Vets First program.

The Maryland Department of Transportation is the State’s official certification agency for firms seeking status as a:

• Minority Business Enterprise (MBE)
• Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE)
• Airport Concessions Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (ACDBE)
• Small Business Enterprise (SBE)

The MBE Program in Prince George’s County requires certification with the Maryland Department of Transportation (MDOT) and the completion of a Vendor Application for placement on the Bid List at the PGCPS Procurement office. To become a vendor, you must have your certification letter from MDOT and a copy of the Vendor Application to apply with the Prince George’s County Board of Education.

Established in 1918, WSSC Water is currently among the largest water and wastewater utilities in the nation, with a network of nearly 6,000 miles of drinking water pipeline and over 5,600 miles of sewer pipeline. Our service area spans nearly 1,000 square miles in Prince George’s and Montgomery Counties, and we serve 1.9 million residents through approximately 475,000 customer accounts. WSSC Water drinking water has always met or exceeded federal standards.

The Small Local Business Enterprise (SLBE) Program is a race-neutral and gender-neutral program administered by the Office of Supplier Diversity & Inclusion (OSDI). The goal is to encourage significant participation in WSSC Water’s contracting opportunities and promote the sustainable economic growth of small firms primarily located in Montgomery and Prince George’s Counties, the Commission’s bi-county territory.

CRMSDC provides Corporate Members and NMSDC certified Minority Business Enterprises (MBEs) with a thriving ecosystem pulsing with progressive opportunities to grow, partner, and develop their capabilities and their inherent entrepreneurial spirits.

This coalition works to guarantee veteran small businesses are given first consideration for federal prime and subcontract procurement opportunities. The National Veteran Small Business Coalition (NVSBC) leads and promotes the growth, strength, and success of veteran owned small businesses.

The AQC credential provides national recognition to construction firms that demonstrate their commitment to corporate responsibility in quality, safety, craft and management education, talent management—including inclusion and diversity—and community relations.

NADCA professionals follow a higher standard of cleaning and must comply with the NADCA Code of Ethics. This landmark certification enhances one’s professional development and is a worldwide credential recognizing a person’s knowledge and skills related to HVAC system hygiene.