0617 - WOW: Leveraging Certifications for Growth
Course Description
Did you know that a women-owned business certification is a crucial credential that affirms a business is at least 51% owned, operated, and controlled by women? According to WBENC, 72% of certified women business owners report that their certification has helped them build valuable connections and access new business opportunities. An advantage that gives Certified women-owned businesses access to specialized networks and resources.
These certifications enable women entrepreneurs to participate in exclusive training programs and enhances their ability to secure lucrative contracts, as both government agencies and major corporations have procurement goals. These entities prefer to engage with certified women-owned enterprises, which also provides them with an opportunity to support the professional advancement of women entrepreneurs.
During this interactive workshop, you will learn about the different certifications that are available to you, the certification process, and the criteria required. You will also hear from a Certified Woman owned business as well as representatives from recognized partner organizations such as the Small Business Administration (SBA), Greater Women’s Business Council (GWBC), Georgia Department of Administrative Services (DOAS), and Georgia Minority Supplier Development Council (GMSDC).
Learner Outcomes
- Understand specific certification criteria, assess your business’s readiness for the certification process, and how to move forward.
- Identify the benefits of women-owned business certifications and why it extends well beyond mere recognition.
- Position your business for new opportunities, including government and corporate contracts that prioritize diversity and inclusion.
- Discover targeted resources and support available to certified women-owned businesses.
Tulu Kaifee is the Procurement and Finance Specialist at the UGA SBDC. She joined the University of Georgia Small Business Development Center’s Multicultural Business Division in October 2023 as a procurement and finance specialist. Tulu has spent over 20 years in the financial services industry with experience in the consumer, small business and commercial lending segments serving entrepreneurs across Georgia. Tulu’s passion to serve multicultural and underrepresented communities gives her a unique edge incorporating Inclusion, Equity and Belonging strategies to attract and retain talent in a competitive environment.