A Moment We've Been Working Toward: Our SBA Certification Story

I've been sitting with this news for a few weeks now, and I keep coming back to the same feeling – this quiet, deep joy that's hard to put into words. We've officially been certified by the Small Business Administration as both a Women-Owned Small Business (WOSB) and an Economically Disadvantaged Women-Owned Small Business (EDWOSB).

I know, I know – letters and certifications might not sound like something to get emotional about. But here's the thing: this feels like the world is finally catching up to something we've always known.

That women-owned businesses like ours aren't just "nice to have" in the mix – we're essential.

The Journey Here

Let me tell you, the application process wasn't glamorous. Picture this: me surrounded by tax documents, legal papers, and tons of coffee. The SBA wanted to see everything – and I mean everything. How we make decisions, who truly runs day-to-day operations, our financial history, even documentation showing how we've overcome the economic hurdles that women entrepreneurs often face. It was like giving someone a backstage pass to our entire business journey.

But as tedious as it was, something beautiful happened during that process. Each document we gathered told a story – about late-night worries, about long brainstorming meetings, about the first client who took a chance on us. It was like creating a scrapbook of our resilience.

What This Really Means to Us

You know how sometimes you're working so hard you forget to look up and see how far you've come? This SBA certification felt like someone tapping us on the shoulder and saying, "Hey, you made it."

As a WOSB and EDWOSB, we're joining a community of women who've walked similar paths. It's about federal agencies recognizing that when they work with women-owned businesses, they're not just checking a diversity box – they're gaining unique perspectives that make projects better.

Here's what makes my heart full: When federal agencies set aside contracts specifically for women-owned businesses, they're acknowledging that representation matters. That having women at the decision-making table creates different – and often better – outcomes.

The Doors This Opens

I'll be honest with you – the idea of working on federal projects used to feel intimidating. There's this whole world of government contracting that seemed like it was built for different kinds of businesses. But now? Now we have a seat at that table.

We're talking about opportunities to:

• Help federal agencies speak to the communities they serve

• Partner with larger contractors who need women-owned businesses to meet their diversity goals

• Compete for contracts specifically set aside for WOSB firms

• Join forces with other certified businesses for bigger, more impactful projects

But beyond the business opportunities, there's something deeper happening here. Every contract we win helps normalize women leadership in sectors where we've been underrepresented. It's like we're quietly opening doors for the entrepreneurs coming up behind us.

What Hasn't Changed (And Never Will)

Getting this SBA certification doesn't change who we are at our core. We're still the same team that celebrates small wins. We still care more about whether our work impacts people's lives. We still believe that the best solutions come from listening deeply and understanding the human beings behind every project.

If anything, this certification reinforces what we've always believed: that authentic, thoughtful work matters. That showing up as your whole self creates better outcomes. That business can be both successful and heart-centered.

Here's Where You Come In

So, federal agencies and prime contractors reading this – we're here, we're certified, and we're ready to bring everything we've got to your next project. Whether you're looking for fresh perspectives on complex challenges, need a partner who understands both technical excellence and human impact, or want to work with a team that treats government work like the important mission it is – let's talk.

But more than that, we want you to know that when you choose to work with us, you're not just getting our expertise. You're getting our heart, our commitment to making things better, and our belief that diverse voices create stronger solutions.

The Invitation

If you're working on federal projects and looking for a WOSB/EDWOSB partner who brings both expertise and genuine care to the table, we'd love to hear from you. Let's grab a virtual coffee and talk about how we might collaborate.

And to my fellow women entrepreneurs who might be considering this certification path – it's worth it. Not just for the business opportunities, but for the way it affirms that your voice, your perspective, and your approach matter in spaces where they've historically been underrepresented.

We're here, we're certified, and we're excited about what comes next. Thanks for being part of this journey with us.