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CBE Business Center
Timeline and Process for Certification 
How Long Will This Take?
The online process has four parts: Part 1 has a maximum of 16 steps, depending upon the type of application being submitted, and should take 40 minutes. After you gather the necessary supporting documents and mail or deliver the entire packet (including a printed version of your application), you will have completed Part 2. It will then take 30-to-90 days to confirm your eligibility for the programs for which you applied (Parts 3 and 4).
There are two ways to complete business certifications: online or by using printable forms. To determine the method best suited to you, select the link below:
If you are ready to apply online, review the process below and select the "Apply for Certification Online" button.
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Part 1
Complete Online
Application | |
Review and gather the list of information needed to successfully fill out an online business certification application. The online application includes a maximum of 16 steps and is dynamically tailored to the application type and the company information that you provide. The process should take approximately 40 minutes, if you have all of the requested information.
Submit your application.
Proceed to Part 2. |
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Part 2
Submit Supporting
Documentation | |
Review the checklist of supporting documents generated after you submit your application, gather all supporting documents listed, and assemble into a packet. Include a printed version of your application.
Submit by mail or in person to: DSLBD 441 4th Street, NW, Suite 970N
Washington, DC 20001 |
After DSLBD receives the application packet, the certification process takes 30 to 90 days.
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Part 3
DSLBD Review and
SLBOC Decision | |
When DSLBD receives your application packet, the agency assigns it to a certification specialist who will analyze it and contact you for additional information if necessary.
You should respond promptly to requests for additional information.
Once the specialist receives and reviews all required documents, he or she submits the package to the independent Small and Local Business Opportunities Commission (SLBOC) for certification approval or denial.
The business locations of all applicants for CBE certification are subject to onsite inspections during this process. |
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Part 4
Decision Sent | |
Receive certification decision and CBE number by mail.
Application and eligibility may take 30-90 days to process. |
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