Small Regional Business Enterprise (SRBE) Certification
Building Businesses. Strengthening Neighborhoods.
The City of Columbus invites eligible small and regional businesses within the City’s Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) to become certified through the Small Regional Business Enterprise (SRBE) Program. Designed to broaden participation in City contracts, the program connects qualified businesses to goods, services, and construction opportunities across departments.
Through SRBE certification, the City continues its commitment to inclusive economic growth by expanding access to procurement opportunities and strengthening the regional supplier network.
Why SRBE Matters
SRBE Certification:
- Increase opportunities for small and regional businesses to compete for City contracts
- Creates a competitive edge in City procurement and expands participation in a stronger, more diverse supplier pool.
- Enhances access to outreach, engagement, and business development opportunities
- Strengthens the regional supplier network to create a more connected and collaborative business ecosystem.
Certification provides access to program benefits but does not guarantee contract award and remains subject to City of Columbus procurement policies and requirements.
Benefits of SRBE Certification
Certified SRBE firms receive:
Compliance & Participation
- Eligibility to be counted toward SRBE participation goals on City projects
- Increased inclusion in competitive City solicitations
Access & Visibility
- Increased visibility to City departments and prime contractors
- Access to City contracting and competitive procurement opportunities
Business Growth & Development
- Engagement opportunities through outreach events and business development activities
- Capacity-building support to strengthen competitiveness for City contracts
- Connection to supplier development resources
Eligibility Requirements
Your business may qualify for SRBE Certification if it:
- Meets the City of Columbus small business size requirements of 25% (revenue) or 50% (employees) of the applicable SBA size standard, based on the business’s primary NAICS code
- Is headquartered in one of the following Ohio counties: Delaware, Fairfield, Fayette, Franklin, Licking, Madison, Pickaway or Union.
- Is independently owned and operated
- Performs a commercially useful function on City contracts
Eligibility is subject to review in accordance with City of Columbus program requirements.
How to Get Certified
Step 1: Register as a vendor through the City of Columbus Vendor Services Portal and complete the Contract Compliance (EBO) Questionnaire.
Step 2: Submit your SRBE certification application through the Supplier Compliance Management System and track your application status online.
For questions, contact:
SupplierCertifications@columbus.gov
(614) 645-4764