AEE Applauds SBA’s New Platform to Streamline Contracting Certifications

WASHINGTON, DC—The Alliance for Entrepreneurial Equity (AEE) applauds the Small Business Administration’s (SBA) announcement of a new online platform that modernizes the federal certification process for underserved small business owners. The update will allow economically- and socially-disadvantaged entrepreneurs, including women and veterans, to easily apply for multiple certifications at once and access federal contracts. Centralizing the process will reduce both the costs and time involved for small business owners.

The development and implementation of this platform marks a significant step forward in helping underserved entrepreneurs. The cumbersome and expensive process has often been a barrier to entry for many small business owners, holding them back from accessing government markets. Simplifying the certification process will increase participation from disadvantaged small businesses in federal contracting, which can boost economic growth across various industries. SBA’s action closely aligns with a recommendation put forward by AEE earlier this year to streamline and improve women-owned small business certifications through one platform.

AEE is a joint venture between the National Urban League and the think tank Third Way aimed at dramatically increasing the opportunity for minority, female, and other disadvantaged entrepreneurs to start and expand successful businesses.