We are proud to announce that we obtained our certification as a Minority-Owned Business. We at Countifi believe that this is a momentous achievement and will help to lead to more opportunities as we move forward. As of 2009, over $550 billion in federal contracts and nearly $350 billion in state and local government contracts went to minority-owned businesses in the U.S., according to the National Minority Supplier Development Council (NMSDC). The Small Business Administration estimates that more than 25% of all federally-funded small businesses are owned by minorities, women or service-disabled veterans.
Our clients have mostly come from the private sector, however, we have worked with state agencies, and affiliates, such as universities. Countifi's inventory and asset management system can be used by most organizations including state and federal agencies.
“Becoming MBE Certified was one of our strategic goals, it ensures we are a part of the conversation when companies want to spend with diverse led companies.” Stated, David Hailey, CEO of Countifi.
Being certified as a Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) puts Countifi at an advantage when bidding on government contracts – and winning! The federal government’s Federal Contractor Program awards special consideration to certified MBEs when all other factors are equal. This means your business will have a better chance at landing larger and more lucrative contracts with private businesses or even local, state and federal governments. According to SCORE, about 5 percent of federal contracting dollars go to minority-owned small businesses in any given year.
The process to become a minority business enterprise (MBE) is easy, but there is a process that must be followed. To achieve your certification you just need to certify that you are at least 51% owned, operated and controlled by one or more minority group members and that we’re able to meet affirmative action goals for employment, education and procurement contracts. The MBE certificate confirms that your business is an organization focused on economic empowerment within communities of color with a commitment to contract work with minority businesses and service providers wherever possible.
Partnering with a MBE certified company has tons of perks. If you are seeking assistance in obtaining a federal or state government contract, partnering with a minority business development agency is key to success. Working with an agency will afford you greater access to networking opportunities and educational resources that are often critical to your success as a small business owner interested in growing your client base through government contracts.
“Entrepreneurship is the backbone of global business, and as minority numbers grow in business ownership, especially in the Tech Sector, it will shift the business paradigm, affecting business and social culture; Countifi will continue to be a thought leader and a full participant affecting this shift.” Stated, David Hailey.