Test Drive MBE Magazine May June 2013 | Page 48

One Bad Apple (continued) pate and comply with each step of the process, demonstrate control, and insist the SBA investigate and penalize those who compete without qualification. It is incumbent on everyone to scrutinize and ensure only those who qualify, participate. T o qualify as a WOSB, the business must be 51 percent “unconditionally” and “directly” owned and controlled by one or more women who are U.S. citizens and “small” as to the size standard corresponding with the North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) code assigned to the solicitation. To be deemed unconditional, the female owner must be able to provide documentation that her ownership is direct and without conditions, and involves her management of the day-to-day operations and long term business goals. As a matter of formality and evidence, the business must be listed in the comprehensive System for Award Management (SAM). SAM consolidated previous registration methods such as the Central Contractor Registry, Federal Agency Registration, Excluded Parties List System, and Online Representations and Certification Application systems into a single database. While it may seem tedious and redundant to register with SAM, especially when registration may have already been completed for one of the previous systems, the process of transferring your previous information is easy and the new database provides unique marketing benefits. Be mindful, however, that all your company’s information is correct, documents your previous success, and demonstrates how your company can facilitate others’ future achievements. This comprehensive approach is a great marketing tool as SAM enables government agencies and contractors to search the database for companies based on location, WOSB/EDWOSB status, and experience. An EDWOSB is a small business that is at least 51 percent owned and controlled by one or more women who are U.S. citizens and “economically disadvantaged.” How does one determine whether the female owner is economically disadvantaged? A presumption exists that a woman is economically disadvantaged if her personal net worth is less than SAVE THE DATE! AUGUST 28 - 29 RED ROCK CASINO RESORT Las Vegas, Nevada NV Energy’s CAMP SUPPLIER DIVERSITY offers diverse business owners a prime time to: • Explore Tier 2/subcontracting opportunities with our prime suppliers • Learn about upcoming supplier sourcing opportunities • Meet key decision-makers • Network and build relationships For more information, visit nvenergy.com/campsupplier 46 May/June 2013 MBE