Minority Business Enterprise certification workshop to be held Feb. 20
The SWFL Enterprise Center, NK Enterprise Consulting, and the National Association of Real Estate Brokers are partnering to empower small businesses in Southwest Florida by providing them with the tools and resources to become Certified Business Enterprises through the Office of Supplier Diversity in Florida.
This initiative was developed to support small businesses in Southwest Florida by helping 60 businesses get certified in 2025. With supplier diversity opportunities growing, certification can open doors for minority-owned businesses to secure government contracts, gain new business connections, and drive economic impact in the SWFL region.
It is a three-part certification workshop series to help small businesses navigate the CBE application process.
The first session, a virtual prep event, had an impressive 48 registrants, setting the stage for the next hands-on application session.
The second session, happening Feb. 20, from 6-8:30 p.m. will be the first of its kind in SWFL, where business owners will receive step-by-step guidance from Dr. Nicole King-Smith to submit their CBE applications on-site. The event is sponsored by Fifth Third Bank, which will provide light refreshments for attendees.
The third and final session will take place on March 18, at the SWFL Enterprise Center, bringing the series to a close and ensuring attendees are fully prepared to take advantage of their new certification.
It will take place at the SWFL Enterprise Center 3903 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd, Fort Myers, FL 33916
Business owners attending the in-person application session should bring: laptop & charger; picture ID (Driver’s License or Passport for notary purposes) · Required documents from the CBE certification checklist
