In today?s market it is necessary for any business in particular Hispanic enterprises to seek out opportunities that can provide an advantage in the procurement arena. Certification is an important tool that will allow Hispanic entrepreneurs the opportunity to apply for certain contracts earmarked for minorities from the private and public sector. Below you will find a number of agencies that provide small business certification.

The Women's Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC), founded in 1997, is the nation's leading advocate of women-owned businesses as suppliers to America's corporations. It also is the largest third-party certifier of businesses owned and operated by women in the United States. If you are a Latina business owner and would like more information on how you certify your business go to: http://www.wbenc.org

The U.S. Small Business Administration's (SBA) 8(a) Business Development Program, named for a section of the Small Business Act, is a business development program created to help small disadvantaged businesses compete in the American economy and access the federal procurement market. For more information on how you certify your business go to: http://www.sba.gov/8abd/

The U.S. Small Business Administration HUBZone Empowerment Contracting program provides federal contracting opportunities for qualified small businesses located in distressed areas. Fostering the growth of these federal contractors as viable businesses, for the long term, helps to empower communities, create jobs, and attract private investment. For more information on how to qualify and register for the HUBZone program go to: http://www.sba.gov/hubzone