Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to provide all of these documents?
The short answer is yes. We will need all of the documentation requested. We will review and check the file for completeness and let you know if we are missing anything. We cannot process a file until it is complete. If you have a specific question about one or more of the documents, don't hesitate to call us for additional clarification.

How long does the process take?
The process can take up to 90 days once we receive a complete file. In that time frame, your file will be reviewed by the certification committee and a committee member will conduct a site visit. Note, the 90-day time frame begins from the date of a completed application. Incomplete applications can delay the certification process.

What is a site visit?
A site visit is an interview at the applicant's main business address. Certification committee volunteers schedule site visits with the female applicant(s). All women owners must be present at the site visit and site visits are required for every applicant.

I'm getting re-certified. Why do I need a site visit?
Site visits are required initially and then every third year. Occasionally, the certification committee for the WPEO will determine that a site visit is needed even though one was conducted in the previous two years.

How do I report a contract with a corporation or WBE (Done Deal™)?
Visit the Done Deals™ section of the website and submit the completed form to the either the NY or DC office, depending on your region. Remember, your Done Deal™ does not have to be the direct result of a WPEO event, program or contact. We simply want to publicly recognize your company for doing business with one of our corporate sponsors or another WBE firm by including a brief description of the "deal" in our quarterly newsletter.


What if my deal is with a Prime Supplier to a Corporation?
Your deal is still valid. Please select the corporation that is the final benefit of your services.

How do I get the WBENC logo?
Log on to WBENCLink using your login and password. There you will find all the required files as well as WBENC's branding guidelines.

How do I get a list of corporations who accept the certification?
Log on to WBENCLink using your login and password. You can then download a list of all corporate contacts. WPEO regional corporations are located on the sponsors page of the website.

I am certified by another entity. Why should I get this certification?
The Women's Business Enterprise National Council provides the most widely recognized and respected certification in the United States for women's business enterprises (WBEs). Through WPEO, a partner organization of WBENC, your business can apply for a certification that is accepted by over 700 major corporations, non-profit organizations, as well as many local, state, and Federal government agencies. WBENC certification is an important marketing tool for expanding your company's visibility among and access to decision makers in supplier diversity and procurement offices. Many corporations require that you be WBENC certified before providing access to their supplier diversity programs.

How do I get more involved with the WPEO?
Attend all of our regional programs and interact with other WBEs and corporate sponsors.


For questions not answered in this FAQ, please contact:
NY Area – Teresa Cantu
DC Area – Liza Avruch