What is a Women’s Business Enterprise (WBE) Certification?
WEConnect International buyer members use WEConnect International Women’s Business Enterprise (WBE) Certification as a tool to ensure that they are purchasing goods or services from women-owned businesses.
Are there size or length-of-time in business requirements to become a Certified WBE?
No, but WEConnect International recommends applicants be operating for several years before applying for WBE Certification so they are able to leverage the benefits of Certification.
Are publicly traded companies eligible for Certification?
Yes they are as long as they meet the criteria for ownership, management, control and independence for Certification.
What if my company is found ineligible for WBE Certification?
If your company is found ineligible for WBE Certification based on requirements, WEConnect International will contact you and outline the reasons why. You will be given 60 days to provide additional documentation for consideration. If inadequate or no documentation is provided within 60 days, your company is eligible to reapply for Certification after one year.
Does my company have to meet all of the business readiness criteria in order to become Certified?
Business readiness is used as a tool to help you determine your company’s capacity to do business within a multinational corporation’s supply chain. In addition, WEConnect International can suggest specific training and opportunities based on your company’s business readiness.
Does my company need to do anything in Year 2 to ensure our Certificate is still valid?
No, when it comes to renewing, the process is simple and straightforward. All your company needs to do is to complete the renewal form with the correct information (including annual revenue and the number of employees). Confirm on the check box a sworn affidavit that there have been no material or substantive changes to the business structure or ownership and pay a new renewal fee. The affidavit is a legal document that states that you are who you say you are and that your company is eligible to hold the Certificate. It serves as a way to verify your identity and ensure that all information on the renewal form is accurate. WEConnect International reserves the right to reject the renewal if the company no longer meets the Certification criteria or the items on the form are not filled out. To ensure the Certificate remains valid, be sure to renew it prior to the expiration date.
Is there a 90-day grace period going into the 3-year Certification?
Yes, the 90-day grace period is a cooling period, designed to give the Certified business the opportunity to stay Certified on the WECommunity platform for a further 90 days during the renewal process.
Are there any exceptions to the 90-day grace period?
No, the 90-day grace period applies to all Certified businesses regardless of their size or the number of suppliers they work with. After the 90-day period, your business may regain its Certification by successfully completing the Certification assessment process.
Can I extend the 90-day grace period if needed?
No, the 90-day grace period cannot be extended. It is important to remain compliant with the requirements of the Certification in order to keep your business Certified.
By using this website, you agree to our use of cookies and our privacy policy. We use cookies to provide you with a great experience and to help our website run effectively. OK
