Unlocking Opportunities: The Power of Business Certifications for Diverse Entrepreneurs   In the latest episode of our podcast, we delve into the transformative potential of business certifications for diverse entrepreneurs. Featuring insights from three speakers, including our host, Heather Cox, the president and co-founder of Certify My Company, and an unnamed participant, this episode sheds light on how certifications can open doors to new business opportunities, particularly for women-owned, minority-owned, veteran-owned, and other underrepresented businesses. Our host kicks off the episode by emphasizing the importance of networking and connections for business owners. Drawing from their extensive experience with over 2,000 leaders, they highlight how certifications can serve as a powerful tool for accessing new contracting opportunities without relying on traditional sales tactics. The host offers a free video resource to help business owners achieve 100% inbound business and invites listeners to explore the podcast for valuable insights.   Heather Cox, the president and co-founder of Certify My Company, shares her passion for supporting underestimated entrepreneurs. Founded 14 years ago, her organization acts as a "cheerleader" for these business owners, helping them navigate the complex landscape of certifications and educational programming. The goal is to prepare these entrepreneurs for larger contracts with both government entities and private sector companies. Heather explains that not all certifications are created equal. The right certification can significantly impact a business's ability to secure contracts. Understanding the specific goals and target markets of entrepreneurs is crucial in guiding them toward the most beneficial certification. Heather outlines the five main demographics eligible for certifications: Women-Owned Businesses, Ethnic Minorities, LGBTQ+ Owned Businesses, Veteran-Owned Businesses, and Disability-Owned Businesses. The conversation shifts to the broader implications of certifications in the contracting world. Heather explains that studies have shown companies with diverse supply chains tend to have better returns on investment (ROI). This is particularly relevant for Fortune 1000 companies, which are increasingly recognizing the value of working with diverse suppliers. The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the importance of local and diverse businesses, as they often stepped in to fill gaps when larger companies could not meet demand. Certifications serve as proof of a business's legitimacy and ownership by individuals from diverse demographics. This vetting process is crucial for companies looking to diversify their supply chains and meet shareholder expectations. The episode concludes with a strong message about the power of certifications for diverse entrepreneurs, emphasizing that certifications represent a commitment to diversity and inclusion in the business landscape. About Heather Cox: Heather Cox is a passionate advocate for diversity and a dynamic business executive. As co-founder and president of Certify My Company, she launched the venture to address the challenges small, diverse businesses face in the WBE certification process. Heather connects diverse businesses with corporations eager to partner with them, while also educating companies on best practices in supplier diversity. With over a decade of experience in sales and operations, primarily with small to medium-sized businesses, Heather is a natural teacher and engaging public speaker. She actively participates in organizations like the Women’s Business Enterprise Council – West and has previously held roles with the Women Presidents’ Educational Organization and the National Association of Women Business Owners. Outside of her professional commitments, Heather enjoys family time with her husband and five children. A former acro-gymnast and tightrope walker, she balances her busy life through yoga, DIY projects, and baking. She holds a BA in Spanish Language from the University of Texas at Austin and is a seasoned traveler.   About Certify My Company: Certify My Company is dedicated to the supplier diversity community as a whole as its works with companies and corporations to raise the bar. In addition to certification resources, Certify My Company assists larger companies in developing a supplier diversity program and increasing their diversity spend. We develop innovative solutions for Corporations to get their classified suppliers certified and their spend numbers in the billions. No matter what your supplier diversity or certification needs are, Certify My Company is here to help you achieve your goals and more. Certify My Company is dedicated to providing thorough and timely services to its clients in order to expedite their goals. With years of experience, you can count on well-trained staff members to apply the attention to detail and expertise you need and to stay with you through the entire process and beyond.   Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guest   Links Mentioned in this Episode: Want to learn more? Check out Certify My Company website at https://www.certifymycompany.org/ Check out Certify My Company on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/certify-my-company/ Check out Heather Cox on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/certifymycompany/ Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next time!     More from UpMyInfluence: We are actively booking guests for our The Thoughtful Entrepreneur. Schedule HERE. Are you a 6-figure consultant? I’ve got high-level intros for you. Learn more here. What is your #1 Lead Generation BLOCKER? Take my free quiz here. Want to learn more about all the podcasts managed by UpMyInfluence? Opt in here.