women and minority-owned Business Enterprises

WBE (Women's Business Enterprise) and MBE (Minority Business Enterprise) certifications are programs that provide recognition to businesses owned and controlled by women and minorities, respectively.

These certifications can offer various benefits, including: 

  • Increased visibility & marketing potential 
  • Increased networking & partnership opportunities 
  • Access to government and corporate contracts that promote diversity and inclusion 


The Division of Equity, Diversity & Inclusion (DEDI) is the only state agency with the authority to certify firms as MBE/WBE in Rhode Island. 

Rhode Island General Laws 37-14.1-1 Minority Business Enterprises states that a minimum of 15% of the dollar values of an entire state procurement project must be awarded to certified minority and women-owned businesses with 7.5% to MBEs and 7.5% to WBEs.

Competitive Bidding: In many cases, state procurement projects involve a competitive bidding process where potential suppliers submit proposals or bids in response to a Request for Proposals (RFP) or Request for Quotations (RFQ). The government then evaluates these bids and selects the most suitable vendor based on various criteria, including cost, quality, and compliance with specifications. The MBE/WBE certification puts small businesses at the top of their list.

APPLY HERE FOR WMBE CERTIFICATION

Share by: