What is CBE certification?
CBE business certification registers a company into a DC agency database and labels it as as a Certified Business Enterprise (CBE) (formerly Local, Small and Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (LSDBE)). The District directs spending to these DC-based businesses that support and contribute to job creation and the city tax base, which in turn results in a much stronger local economy. There are three different types of certification applications available in the CBE Business Center:

		Certification Application—Complete a certification application if you are applying for CBE certification for the first time or if your certification expired more than a year ago. All certifications expire two years from the date of issuance.
		Recertification Application—Complete a recertification application at least 90 days before the expiration date of your certification.
		Upgrade Application—Submit an upgrade application along with appropriate documentation if you are adding NIGP codes or services and if you wish to add a certification category, i.e. DZE, DBE, ROB or LRB.

 

 

Why should a business apply?
Businesses with CBE certification receive preferred procurement and contracting opportunities.

 

For detailed explanations of business terminology or definitions, please select the CBE Glossary of Terms: