Business Certification Using Printable Forms – Frequently Asked Questions (Cont.)
Q: What is the purpose of the LSDBE program?
The District of Columbia LSDBE program develops contract and procurement "preference" and "set-aside" opportunities for District-based businesses. The District's discretionary spending can be directed to District businesses that support and contribute directly to job creation and the tax base. These efforts result in a much stronger local economy.
 
Q: Exactly what benefits do I get as an LSDBE?
LSDBE Certification allows businesses to participate in the District's "Sheltered Market" contracting program. Preferences and set-asides vary from 35-50 percent LSDBE participation. You may obtain preferences in the form of 2-12 points (maximum) on your response to Request for Proposals (RFPs) and/or a 2-12 percent reduction (maximum) on your response to bids.
Q: Will all applicants be accepted into the LSDBE program?
No. Only bona-fide District businesses that meet the certification requirements will be accepted into the LSDBE program.
Q: If my company is not accepted into the LSDBE program, will I still be able to bid on District contracts and procurement opportunities?
Yes. All companies are welcome to compete in the District's contract and procurement process. Any non-LSDBE certified business can respond to the Office of Contracting and Procurement with bid and contract solicitations. However, keep in mind that the LSDBE program goal is to provide increased opportunities to LSDBE-certified firms through preference programs. If your company obtains an award from the District, it may be required to obtain 35-50 percent participation by LSDBE- certified businesses as subcontractors.
Q. I have already filed applications with other government agencies. Can the LSDBE certification program accept my existing certifications? Why/Why not?
No. The District of Columbia LSDBE Certification Program is a regulation enacted under DC Law 12-268, the "Equal Opportunity for Local, Small and Disadvantaged Business Act of 1998." The program is designed for District-based businesses only. Other certification programs are not designed to comply with the legal requirements of the District's program. However, some support documentation from other applications can be copied and submitted to the District LSDBE certification program, such as your business plan, financial statements, copy of business license, etc.
Q: Who decides if my application is approved?
The Local Business Opportunities Commission (LBOC) issues LSDBE Certification approvals. The Mayor appoints the Commission, and members serve as volunteers, as specified under District of Columbia Law 12-268. The LBOC is composed of business leaders and one District government representative.
Q: If the LBOC approves applications, why do I need to submit my application to the Department of Human Rights and Local Business Development (DHR & LBD)?
The DHR & LBD provides administrative services to the LBOC. It reviews applications, audits, and support documentation and submits report summaries to the LBOC for final review and approval.
Q: How soon will you begin processing my application?
The average time it takes to process an application is approximately 10 working days. Once your application is received, it is assigned to our "Intake" personnel for processing. There your application package is entered into the LSDBE application database and a receipt of delivery is given to you. Then your application package is assigned to a certification specialist for analysis. The specialist may contact you regarding the status of your application and for additional information. Once all required documents are received, the package is submitted to the independent Local Business Opportunities Commission (LBOC) for certification approval/denial.
Q: How long does the overall certification approval take?
Because the certification program is, in fact, a two-fold system, certification approval requires a minimum of 30 to 90 days. This period reflects the time it takes to process your application and the time it takes to schedule and present your final summary and report at the next Local Business Opportunities Commission meeting. LSDBE candidates, who submit complete and comprehensive application packages, may reduce the processing time.
Q: If my application is not complete, will my processing time increase?
Yes. If your LSDBE package is not complete, you will be contacted in writing by a certification specialist indicating deficiencies. You will be asked for additional information pertaining to your application. If you do not respond in a timely manner to the request for additional information, your application may be deactivated, and a new submission will be required.
Q: How can I ensure there are no additional delays in processing my application?
Take the time to prepare and submit a comprehensive application, complete with supporting documentation. Use the checklist provided to develop a comprehensive package. Always make sure that all documents are included in the package at the time of submission.
Q: Is my business subject to on-site inspections?
Yes. The business locations of all applicants for LSDBE certification are subject to on-site inspections.
Please Note:
This Frequently Asked Questions page is designed to assist the applicant by listing some of the most commonly addressed issues. This page is not intended, by accident or otherwise, to supersede any viable and/or current legislation authorized by the District of Columbia City Council. All applicants are advised to attend the Department of Human Rights and Local Business Development Orientation Session for LSDBE program participation requirements and further application information. | 
