Minority Business Enterprise

(MBE)





Hearing The Term “Minority Business Enterprise,” Several Questions May Come To Mind:

  • What’s the significance of working with or buying from a ‘minority business enterprise’ company?

  • What does it take for them to become certified?

  • How can working with an MBE advance my organization’s goals?

As it turns out, minority-owned business enterprise certification says a lot about an organization, and it can have significant impacts for your business.

Completion of the MBE certification process demonstrates that a minority owner/ceo wants to represent their business in the best way possible and take advantage of all opportunities to advance, better, and grow their company. 

 

“I first learned of the MBE Certification and how having this certification could help our Great Lakes Building & Products’ clients in 2019. It took me over two years to complete the process. It’s intensely scrutinized because it is such a highly valued certification,”




— shares Marcus Johnson, GLBP CEO

 

What is a minority-owned business enterprise?

A minority-owned business enterprise (MBE) is a business that’s owned, run, and managed by a person of color. Great Lakes Buildings & Products is owned and managed by black entrepreneur, Marcus Johnson and Lotus Home Improvement is their DBA of GLBP.

 

What’s the process when becoming a certified minority-owned business enterprise?

Obtaining an official certification as a minority-owned business enterprise is a lengthy process that involves careful research, planning and adherence to several key requirements as outlined by the National Minority Supplier Development Council.

The certification process can take up to 180 days or longer and is dependent on review and approval by the Certification Compliance Committee and the Board. We are MBE certified through the NMSDC, Illinois and the city of Chicago.

 

What are The benefits of purchasing building products from a minority-owned business enterprise (MBE) distributor?

  • MBE support demonstrates community care. Many MBEs are small- to medium-sized businesses. Partnering with local certified MBE organizations spur the local economy in general.

  • Supporting a business that’s proven they’ve been vetted to qualify for certification. It takes a lot of effort, intention, and attention to detail to prep paperwork, and holds up throughout the certification process. Certified MBEs have proven that they are ready to go for their businesses, and by extension, their customers, and clients (that’s you) as well!