WOSB and 8(a) Certification for Black Women Founders in Tulsa

Federal contracting can be a powerful growth channel for African American women founders in Tulsa. Two key programs to know are the Women-Owned Small Business (WOSB) program and the 8(a) Business Development Program.

Women-Owned Small Business (WOSB)

The WOSB program helps eligible women-owned businesses compete for federal contracts in industries where women are underrepresented. Certification typically requires proof of ownership, control, and size eligibility.

8(a) Business Development Program

The 8(a) program is designed for small businesses owned and controlled by socially and economically disadvantaged individuals. It can provide access to set-aside contracts and business development support.

Registration basics

Before pursuing federal contracts, register in the System for Award Management (SAM.gov). This registration is required for most federal contracting opportunities.

What Tulsa founders should prepare

• Ownership documents and governance records
• Financial statements and tax returns
• A clear capability statement describing services and past performance

Tulsa founder tip: build a contracting pipeline

Certification is only the first step. A strong pipeline comes from relationship-building, capability statements, and targeted outreach to agencies and primes.

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This article is general information, not legal advice. For guidance tailored to your business goals, consult an Oklahoma business attorney. To plan your next steps, call +1 918 221 9438 or schedule a consultation.