Equity in Enterprise

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“Elevation” by artist Mr Cenz pays tribute to the importance of entrepreneurship and decent work for all.

All people deserve equal access to economic opportunity.

The Office of Commissioner Rodney Ellis is committed to making our economy more inclusive and equitable by supporting programs and initiatives that promote the growth, development, and long-term success of small businesses, with a focus on historically disenfranchised businesses.


Pitch Your Business Resources Certification

Connect with the Office of Commissioner Rodney Ellis


Share your goods, services, or innovative ideas with us! The Office of Commissioner Rodney Ellis is looking to connect with small and diverse businesses that can help us better serve Harris County.

Pitch Your Business


Certification

Certifications such as Minority, Women, and Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (M/W/DBE) and Historically Underutilized Business (HUB) certifications recognize businesses owned and controlled by minorities, women, and socially or economically disadvantaged individuals. These certifications help level the playing field by promoting fair access to contracting opportunities in both the public and private sectors. They support efforts to increase supplier diversity, strengthen local economies, and address longstanding disparities in business participation.

Harris County does not certify businesses. Instead, Harris County recognizes several certifications from certifying agencies for M/WBE credit, as long as firms have a significant local presence as defined by Harris County. The Department of Economic Equity and Opportunity has a list of the agencies from which Harris County assesses certifications for M/WBE.

Certifying Entities


Tips for Maximizing Certifications to Expand Business Opportunities

  • Complete the certification process well ahead of procurement opportunities, as approval can take several weeks to months.
  • Attend certification workshops and information sessions to understand eligibility requirements, required documentation, and the application process.
  • Maintain accurate and current business records as certifying agencies require supporting documentation such as tax returns, ownership documents, and business licenses.
  • Both free and fee-based certification options are available, depending on the certifying agency.
  • Ensure accurate and current information for your business is listed in certified vendor directories, as these directories are often used by government buyers and prime contractors to identify certified firms for opportunities.
  • Stay engaged with certified agencies and supplier diversity programs by attending networking events, procurement fairs, and matchmaking sessions.
  • Monitor upcoming bid opportunities and register with public and private sector procurement portals to receive notifications.
  • Use your certification in marketing materials to highlight your business’s qualifications for supplier diversity programs.