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Certify Colorado

Program Summary

Certify Colorado is a new program led by the Minority Business Office (MBO) that helps small and diverse business owners in Colorado cover the cost of obtaining nationally recognized business certifications. These certifications are crucial for accessing government and corporate contracting opportunities. This is not a certification issued by the State of Colorado. The State of Colorado does not issue its own certification. This program supports businesses in obtaining third-party certifications recognized at national and regional levels.

Overview

Type: Sponsorship

For: First Year Certifications

Amount: Up to $2,000 per participating business (Funding is paid directly to the certifying agency, not to the business.)

Application period: The program will be active until all funds are depleted. A wait list will be activated once programs funds are fully deployed.

OEDIT division: Minority Business Office

Certification helps your business qualify for government contracts, supplier diversity programs, and procurement opportunities that prioritize certified small and diverse businesses. These certifications can boost your visibility, credibility, and growth potential in both public and private sectors.

The following list are the current participants in Certify Colorado.

  • WBENC – Women’s Business Enterprise (WBE)
  • NaVOVA- Veteran-Owned Business
  • City & County of Denver Certifications (e.g., M/WBE, SBE, EBE, SBEC)
  • RTD (Regional Transportation District) (SBE)
  • SBA (Small Business Administration) (8a)

Businesses that are new to the certification and/or contracting space.

To qualify, a business must follow this eligibility:

  • Be based and registered in the State of Colorado
  • Complete the Certifications 101 Course (online via Business Support Learning Module System or in person through the MBO):
    • Colorado Small Business Learning (Online Course) - English and Spanish
  • Submit a business plan showing a clear strategy for pursuing government or corporate contracting; and
    • The business plan should include strategy, goals, and how the business intends to achieve them, particularly in the context of pursuing government or corporate contracting opportunities. It demonstrates a clear path for growth, financial management, and operational feasibility. The business must engage in one-on-one consulting with the MBO to verify readiness.

We will connect you to the appropriate opportunities based on your goal. Participants will gain access to:

  • Networking and matchmaking events with government agencies and corporate buyers
  • Referrals to appropriate sites where national, state, and local agencies post bids
  • Contracting education and resources
  • Referrals to Colorado APEX Accelerator (formerly Colorado PTAC) for advanced procurement support (for eligible businesses)

  • Enroll in the Certifications 101 Course (Online) or attend an in person session.
    • Colorado Small Business Learning (Online Course) - English and Spanish.
    • Complete a one-on-one consultation with the MBO.
    • Select the certification you plan to pursue, receive a referral from the MBO to the certifying partner and start certifying partners programming.
    • Fulfill the referral to the certifying partners and complete  their criteria and application to certify. Payment will be issued directly to the certifying partners.

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