Presenter: Dr. Ileen Kelly, Illinois APEX, Business Development Center at College of DuPage

A big picture discussion to small business contracting certifications (set-aside programs).

• Introduction level 101
• Benefits of major certifications & key eligibility
• An overview of the requirements & nuances

Certifications: Interpreting the alphabet to pursue profits! Which small business certification is the best one for you?

Business Status: Existing - 2+ Years of Business Revenue

Skill Level: Intermediate

Your Options:

• Federal: 8(a), EDWOSB, HUBZone, SDB, SDVOSB, WOSB, VOSB
• State: DBE, FBE, FMBE, MBE, PBE, VBE
• Local: DBE, MBE, WBE, VBE

You will learn the details of the application process, documentation requirements, certification options, and how to market and leverage certifications for the growth of your business.

Primary Training Topics:

• BEP/DBE/State Certification
• Government Contracting
• Selling to Government

Agenda

1. Contract Spending and Small Business Goals

2. Eligibility: The Big Picture

3. Small Business Self-Certification

4. 8(a) Certification

5. Woman-Owned Small Business (WOSB) and Economically Disadvantaged WOSB (EDWOSB)

6. Veteran-Owned Small Business (VOSB) and Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) Certifications

7. Historically Underutilized Business Zone (HUBZONE) Certification

8. Common State and Local Certifications

Biography

Dr. Ileen Kelly, who joined the team in July 2019 as the Program Coordinator, now holds dual positions as the Business Development Center Manager and Illinois APEX Accelerator Program Manager.

Bringing with her over a decade of experience in Leadership and Capacity Building training for small businesses and non-profit organizations, Dr. Kelly has established herself as a formidable asset to the team. Her expertise spans various sectors, having spent more than 10 years in workforce development at the City Colleges of Chicago, where she assessed and provided training for both incumbent and future workforce across multiple industries.

Prior to her tenure in academia, Dr. Kelly amassed over 30 years of experience in marketing, advertising, and public relations with Chicago Tribune Media. During her time there, she managed the public messaging for national clients and brands, demonstrating her proficiency in strategic communication and brand management.

In her current capacity, Dr. Kelly's primary responsibility is to advise clients on growing their businesses through local, state, and federal government contracting. This includes assisting clients in processing their Certification applications for the set-aside programs offered by various government agencies. Additionally, she serves as the team leader of the Business Development Center, nurturing the continued growth and success of a super dynamic team whose mission is to empower the businesses they serve.