What is the advantage to a minority contractor of becoming certified?

Certification demonstrates the contractor’s eligibility for projects. Inclusion on a list of certified M/WBEs increases opportunities to be used by general contractors or local governments. Certification does not guarantee contract awards, though, and minority contractors may be considered in many jurisdictions even if they are not certified.  As of July 1, 2009, certification with the state-wide certification program will be required for a minority contractor to be considered an M/WBE for purposes of the M/WBE requirements in G.S. 143-128.2 and G.S. 143-131.