MBE (Minority Business Enterprise)

The Missouri Office of Equal Opportunity, part of the Office of Administration, certifies minority- and woman-owned businesses. Its FAQ says a Minority Business Enterprise is a business that is at least 51% owned and controlled by one or more minority persons.

Certification matters on public work. OEO says it helps connect certified businesses with procurement opportunities across state government. OEO's stated aim is to increase the use of certified Minority, Woman, and Service-Disabled Veteran-owned businesses on state contracts.

Advanced Environmental Services describes itself as a minority-owned business and a Minority Business Enterprise (MBE). Owners and project managers who must meet a goal, as with interior demolition on public work, should ask any subcontractor for the current certificate, not just a claim.

Ask three things. Is the certificate current? Which agency issued it? Does the work scope match the certified trade? Keep a copy in the project file.

An MBE is a status, not a skill. Judge the bid on scope, licenses, insurance and safety record as well.