The Power of Certification for Women & Minority-Owned Businesses in Florida
June 18th, 2025
What Is the Florida Minority and Women-Owned Business Certification?
The Florida Minority and Women-Owned Business Certification is a formal acknowledgment that a business is majority-owned and controlled by a woman, minority, or both. Issued by Florida’s Office of Supplier Diversity (OSD) under the Department of Management Services (DMS), this certification helps level the playing field in state contracting.
Why does it matter? Because certified businesses are included in Florida’s Supplier Diversity directory—a powerful tool used by state agencies and vendors looking to meet diversity spending goals. Certification helps small businesses access state contracts, mentorship, and growth tools they may not otherwise be considered for.
It’s not a label. It’s leverage. And it’s completely free.
Who Qualifies for Certification in Florida?
To qualify, a business must meet very specific criteria:
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Be at least 51% owned, controlled, and managed by a woman, a minority, or both.
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Be a for-profit entity located and authorized to do business in Florida.
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Have fewer than 200 employees.
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Show control over the daily operations and long-term decisions by the minority or woman owner.
In other words, it’s not just about who owns shares on paper. Real leadership and control are required.
For example, a woman who owns 51% of a company but doesn’t handle day-to-day operations may not qualify. However, if she is the CEO, signs contracts, and manages staff, that control makes her eligible.
For full details, businesses can review the full criteria at the Florida DMS Supplier Diversity portal.
Why This Certification Matters More Than Ever
Across the country—and especially in Florida—certification plays a vital role in reducing disparities in access to opportunity. Studies show that minority and women entrepreneurs face unique hurdles, such as lack of access to capital and fewer networking connections.
Karly Jordan Organized and Clean LLC – Florida Minority and Women-Owned Business Certification
Certification creates visibility. It gives smaller businesses a seat at the table. It connects underrepresented entrepreneurs to state-funded projects, grants, and mentorship. Florida, through its Office of Supplier Diversity, is actively working to ensure more equity in public purchasing—and this certification is how they do it.
In short, certification equals inclusion.
7 Ways Certification Helps Businesses Grow
Let’s break down exactly what this means in practice. Here are seven powerful benefits of earning your Florida Minority and Women-Owned Business Certification:
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Contract Access: State and local agencies prioritize certified vendors in procurement. Certification helps open doors to exclusive contracting opportunities.
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Visibility in Directories: Certified businesses are listed in the OSD Vendor Directory, making it easier for buyers to find and hire them.
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Training and Events: Certified businesses get access to exclusive workshops, matchmaking events, and state-wide expos to build networks and skills.
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Funding Resources: Many financial programs, including some loans and grants, prioritize or exclusively serve certified firms.
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Mentorship Programs: The state connects certified businesses with mentors through programs like Florida APEX Accelerator and SCORE.
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Marketing Boost: Certification acts as a trust badge for customers who value diversity, equity, and inclusion.
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Competitive Advantage: In a bid, being certified can be the deciding factor between two equally strong candidates.
So, yes, the paperwork is worth it.
Meet Karly Jordan: A Local Business Owner Who Got Certified
Karly Jordan of Karly Jordan Organized and Clean LLC recently achieved her certification from the State of Florida—and it’s a milestone worth celebrating.
Her business, rooted in personalized professional organizing and residential cleaning services, is proudly woman- and minority-owned. By earning this certification, she not only solidified her credibility with public buyers but also positioned her business for new growth opportunities across Florida.
The recognition opens doors that once felt shut. From school district bids to local agency contracts, Karly now has access to a whole new playing field.
And most importantly? She’s now in the spotlight. Certification shines a light on businesses like hers.
The Application Process Made Simple
Getting certified may seem intimidating, but Florida makes it remarkably straightforward.
Here’s the simplified process:
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Create an account on the Florida Department of Management Services portal.
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Complete the online application, uploading required documents (business license, financials, etc.).
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Submit the application and wait for approval—usually within 60 days.
Need help? The OSD team and partners like Florida APEX Accelerator and SBDC at FGCU offer guidance along the way.
Just be sure to double-check your information. Typos, incomplete documents, or mismatched addresses are the most common reasons applications are delayed or rejected.
Common Mistakes to Avoid During the Application
While the process is straightforward, small mistakes can slow things down. Here are some common pitfalls:
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Listing the wrong principal owner or failing to prove day-to-day control
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Uploading expired business documents
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Leaving out required tax returns or operating agreements
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Using inconsistent addresses between paperwork and application
Before you hit submit, review everything twice. And if you’re not sure, reach out to the OSD or local business support offices.
Additional Resources for Certified Businesses
Once certified, you’re not alone. Florida offers a full support ecosystem:
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Florida APEX Accelerator: Formerly PTAC, this organization helps with government contracts and federal certifications. floridaapex.org
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SCORE Mentors: Offers free mentoring from successful retired executives. score.org
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SBDC at FGCU: Southwest Florida’s leading resource for small business development and funding advice. fsbdcswfl.org
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Office of Supplier Diversity: State-wide events and trainings.
This network exists to help you thrive. Use it.
How Certification Builds Stronger Communities
When local businesses get certified and grow, the benefits ripple outward.
First, they create jobs. Second, they reinvest in their communities, buying local and partnering with other small businesses. And finally, they inspire others.
When someone sees a local business owner like Karly Jordan succeed, they begin to believe in their own potential. That’s the magic of visibility.
Certification isn’t just about one company. It’s about changing the landscape.
Ready to Get Started? What You Should Do Next
If you’re a woman or minority business owner in Florida, the next steps are clear:
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Review the criteria
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Gather your documents
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Submit your application
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Get connected to Florida APEX and your local SBDC for help
Because the sooner you’re certified, the sooner your business can grow.
FAQs
What does the Florida Minority and Women-Owned Business Certification do?
It validates your business as minority- or woman-owned and gives access to public contracts and support services.
Is the certification only for state contracts?
No. Many cities, counties, and private-sector partners also honor this state-level certification.
How long does the process take?
It typically takes 30–60 days from the time you submit a complete application.
Can I apply if I have a home-based business?
Yes! As long as you meet the eligibility criteria, home-based businesses can qualify.
Does it cost anything to apply?
No. The Florida certification process is free.
Can I use the certification for marketing?
Absolutely. It’s a credibility booster—many businesses display it proudly on their websites and proposals.
Conclusion
The Florida Minority and Women-Owned Business Certification isn’t just a title—it’s a pathway. A proven lever for growth. A gateway to visibility and contracts. And best of all? It’s a tool designed to help real people—like Karly Jordan—succeed in business and beyond.
Certification is one form of empowerment that costs nothing but delivers lasting value. If you’re eligible, don’t wait.
Your opportunity starts now.
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