Small Business Enterprise Mission Statement 

To create and sustain a competitive and fair business environment for contracting, procurement and consulting opportunities that include small businesses owned by minority, women, and socially and economically disadvantaged people.

City of Tacoma Small Business Enterprise Certification

Any qualified business can easily get an application online or call the SBE Office request more information. The program requirements, application, affidavit, and instructions can be downloaded 24 hours a day, seven days a week. You can email the SBE Office or call Monday through Friday 8 AM to 5 PM at (253) 591-5224. 

 

SBE staff members will be glad to assist you with any questions regarding the SBE program or available resources. During a brief phone interview, you can answer simple yes-or-no questions to find out if your business qualifies for the SBE program.

Ongoing Training and Business Management Assistance is Available 

For certified businesses, SBE helps to level the playing field when it comes to having an opportunity to secure public works and goods and services contracts. For prime public works contractors, SBE offers preapproved certified contractors who can help you meet the SBE goal for your project.

For both the SBE certified subcontractor and the prime contractor, SBE offers assistance in obtaining business management and administrative skills by partnering with experienced programs and individuals who in turn share their knowledge and expertise. Local business training and educational opportunities are available through the Washington Procurement and Technical Assistance Center (PTAC) as well as through the Office of Minority & Women's Business Enterprises (OMWBE).

Small Works Roster 
The City of Tacoma's Small Works Roster Program (SWR) allows pre-registered contractors the opportunity to bid on small public works and improvement projects with a budget of $200,000 or less.  

For smaller qualifying companies, the Small Works Roster may allow for expedited payment and waiver of the bid bond.  This program utilizes categories under the North American Industry Classification System (NAICS).  Except for the Small Works Roster, the City of Tacoma does not maintain an ongoing vendor or bidders list for any categories of work.  

Small Works Roster bids are sent to approved and pre-registered contractors.