Certification FAQ's

The WBENC certification for women-owned businesses is one of the most widely recognized and respected certifications in the nation. Accepted by thousands of corporations within the country and a number of federal and government agencies, Plymouth Technology's WBENC certification is an important marketing tool for expanding the company's visibility among decision makers in corporate supply chain diversity and procurement.

What is a WBE?

WBE (Women's Business Enterprise) is an independent business concern that is at least 51% owned and controlled by one or more women who are U.S. citizens or Legal Resident Aliens; whose business formation and principal place of business are in the US or its territories; and whose management and daily operation is controlled by one or more of the women owners.

What exactly does it mean to be "certified as a WBE?"

Being certified as a WBE means that a business concern has gone through a rigorous and stringent certification process to confirm the business is owned, managed, and controlled by a woman or women.

What is WBENC and how is that different from my local/regional affiliate?

WBENC is the Women's Business Enterprise National Council and is comprised of 14 women's business organization partners. All of the partner organizations adhere to WBENC's stringent Standards and Procedures in their certification programs.

How does WBENC certification differ from others?

The Women's Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC) is the nation's leading third-party certifier of women's business enterprises (WBEs) for the private sector. In partnership with women's business organizations throughout the United States, WBENC provides access to a national standard of certification and provides information on certified women's businesses to purchasing managers through its Internet database, WBENC Link. WBENC certification is recognized and accepted by the majority of the major corporations across the U.S.