WBENC is the largest third-party certifier of women-owned businesses in the U.S. and a leading advocate for women entrepreneurs.

The Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC) is a leading national non-profit organization dedicated to helping women-owned and small businesses thrive. We believe business development promotes innovation, opens doors, and …

WBENC uses a two part process to ensure every WBENC-Certified business meets our criteria and standards. This includes a thorough review of the documentation presented and a site visit interview with the female owner(s).

WBENC partners with 14 Regional Partner Organizations authorized to administer WBENC and WOSB certification for women-owned businesses across the United States, including Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Virgin Islands.

Show off your status as a WBENC-Certified WBE using the WBE Seal. Available only for WBENC-Certified WBEs. Best for business proposals, business cards, websites, and other B2B collateral. Most widely recognized among procurement and supplier diversity professionals.

Ready to get certified? That's great! Find out the steps of how to apply for WBENC Certification for women-owned businesses.

WBENC hosts numerous virtual and in-person events throughout the year for women-owned business and corporate supporters. Learn more about WBENC events.

WBENC provides a national standard of certification to women-owned businesses through its 14 Regional Partner Organizations and provides purchasing managers with access to more than 20,000 WBENC-Certified WBEs through WBENCLink2.0, our online database profiling WBENC-Certified WBEs.

As WBENC continues to celebrate remarkable business owners, the 2025 WBE Star Award highlights individuals who embody the spirit of “ACCELERATE”—driving progress, growth, and community advancement. The 2025 WBE Stars, like Liseth Velez, are paving the way for innovation and leadership.

WBENC is celebrating the 25th Anniversary year, a quarter of a century full of accomplishments, challenges, innovation and opportunities for women entrepreneurs and women business enterprises.