We work with many businesses that are currently certified in at least one socio-economic category, and some have multiple certifications to use in correlation with opportunities. Until now, this would have involved mounds of paperwork dependent on which designation you were seeking, Women-Owned Small Business (WOSB), Service-Disabled, Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB), HUBZone among the many designations offered by the Small Business Administration (SBA). But things are changing.
A new SBA platform launching in September will mean big changes for the certification process, which will have an impact on time and execution regarding the application process to utilization. Let’s take a look at some of the changes and how it will affect contractors going forward.
The New Platform
The goal of MySBA Certifications is to improve how small businesses apply for and manage their federal contracting certifications. In announcing the new platform, SBA Administrator Isabel Casillas Guzman called it part of a broader effort to elevate customer experience and modernize how it delivers its products.
The new platform hasn’t launched yet, but the SBA has paused accepting certification applications on the old system as it prepares to do that next month. The administration says benefits of the MySBA Certification include:
- Unified Application Process: Small businesses will be able to apply for multiple certifications simultaneously through a single platform.
- Reduced Paperwork: The SBA estimates significant time savings in the application process.
- Centralized Management: All certifications can be managed in one place, simplifying the process for small business owners.
- Faster Processing: The SBA anticipates substantial reductions in application processing times.
- Easier Resource Access: The platform will offer resources to help businesses succeed in winning contracts.
Small Business Impact
At Parabilis, we recognize the challenges our clients face in navigating the federal contracting landscape. We’re hopeful that this new system has the potential to make the certification process more accessible and efficient.
The SBA notes that while 40% of small businesses are eligible for multiple certifications, only 10% currently hold more than one. We anticipate that the streamlined process could encourage more businesses to pursue multiple certifications, potentially opening up new contracting opportunities as groups push for more set-asides for contractors with those certifications.
In order to prepare for the launch. You’ll want to monitor the SBA’s certification upgrades page. Parabilis will also continue to monitor developments as the launch of MySBA Certifications approaches. If you have questions about how these changes might affect your business or how Parabilis can support your contracting goals, please reach out to us.