Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) and Women Business Enterprise (WBE) certifications are for minority-owned and women-owned businesses seeking opportunities for state, county, and city government, and special jurisdiction (e.g. hospitals and universities) contracts. M/WBE are based on the individual rather than the size of the business. Certifications do not expire.
The business must:
- Be for profit (OAR 123-200-1230(1));
- Be registered with the Oregon Secretary of State (OAR 123-200-1230(1));
- Have gross annual receipts (3-year average) not exceeding $30.72 million (OAR 123-200-1100(16)); and
The business owner must:
• Be a U.S. citizen or lawfully admitted, permanent resident (49 CFR 26.67(a));
• Own and control 51 percent or more of the business (OAR 123-200-1220);
• Control and manage day-to-day operations (OAR 123-200-1240);
• Have proper
licensing (e.g. engineer, plumber) (OAR 123-200-1240(8)(a)); and
• Have made a contribution of capital (OAR 123-200-1220(6)).
The business owner should also expect a phone interview and possible site visit, which includes office, shop, and job site when applicable (OAR 123-200-1300(6)).
- Use the Application Checklist to gather all necessary records.
- Visit the Certification Management System to access the e-application and apply for M/WBE Certification.
If you do not have the ability to access the e-application process please send an email to the COBID team at
Questions? Visit our
Frequently Asked Questions page.