Minority Certification 101

So you want to obtain a minority/woman certification? Well, here are some common questions regarding the process to get you on your way:

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Commercial Industrial Roof Services Company – Success Story

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After graduating from the University of Cincinnati, Hig Rodriquez Dillinger worked with a number of building materials companies. In 2002 he decided to leverage his experience and contacts to launch Commercial Industrial Roof Services Co. “It seemed natural that we would take all of that expertise and put it to use as a roof consultant,” Dillinger said. So in 2002 Dillinger came to the Florida Small Business Development Center at the University of South Florida in order to learn how to obtain his certification as a Minority Business Enterprise and how to win government contracts.

Grants for Small Business – Myths versus Reality

So, you are looking for a grant to start or grow your business. You know that there is an abundance of money out there just waiting for you. You know this because your friends tell you so, the media tells you so, books tell you that all you need to do is just ask for your check, and infomercials bombard you with the message that anyone can get a business grant. Maybe, you attended a seminar where you were told that this is true and in order to find these grants all you have to do is buy their books, tapes, and/or consulting services. How probable is it that you can find a grant for your business? Is what you know the whole truth, the partial truth, or a myth?

The answer to these questions is that there is a kernel of truth in what you have been told; enough of it is true so that the source does not risk serious legal liability. However, read and listen closely to their words. Although they give the impression that these business grants are available in great abundance and are yours for the asking, the whole truth is that they have many restrictions. In the last six years, I have assisted 2,115 clients in finding money for their businesses. Only 22 (1%) of those clients received a business grant and almost all of them received their grants from a state of Florida program that is available only to the disabled and Native Americans. In my nine years of business counseling, I am not aware of anyone who ever received a business grant from any source they directly identified upon buying a book, watching an infomercial, or paying a grant consultant. So, what are the common myths and realities? Are there any grants available for your business?

Red Tape Hypertension

[red teyp hahy-per-ten-shuh-n]

n. Elevation of the blood pressure, or extreme emotional tenseness often attributed to building and maintaining relationships with the U.S. Government.

Rules, requirements and regulations — oh my! Stuck in the red tape surrounding the U.S. government? We can help set you free with these classes that guide you through the creation and maintenance of valuable government relationships.

Prescription for Success

• Women, Minority, & Service Disabled Veteran Certification
• Government Contracting Series
• Annual Government Small Business Conference