Targeted Business Designations

Getting your business certified as one of the targeted business designations could gain you access to exclusive training programs, government contracts, funding opportunities, and more. Learn if your business meets certification criteria and what benefits you could receive.

Woman Owned Small Business

The SBA helps women entrepreneurs launch new businesses and compete in the marketplace with training and funding opportunities specifically for women.

Minority Owned Small Business

The SBA is committed to supporting the development and growth of minority-owned small businesses and entrepreneurs from underserved communities.

8(a) Business Development

The 8(a) Business Development Program was created to help firms owned and controlled by socially and economically disadvantaged individuals through training, technical assistance, and contracting programs.

Targeted Small Business

The TSB program is designed to help women, individuals with minority status, service-connected disabled veterans and individuals with disabilities overcome hurdles to start or grow a small business.

Veteran Owned Small Business

The SBA offers support for veterans as they enter the world of business ownership. Military spouses are also extended access to the same resources and business programs as veterans.

Native American Owned Business

The federal government provides opportunities in contracting, business development, and other programs specifically for Native American small business owners.

LGBTQIA+ Owned Business

SBA’s Network for LGBTQ+ Businesses aims to bring focus on economic empowerment in the LGBTQ+ business community by providing access to various programs and services.

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America’s SBDC Iowa is an outreach program of Iowa State University’s Ivy College of Business and the Office of Economic Development and Industry Relations. Funded in part through a cooperative agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration.