FAQs
What is TSMSDC?
TSMSDC is the Tri-State Minority Supplier Development Council (www.nmsdc.org). TSMSDC is one of 37 affiliate councils of the National Minority Supplier Development Council (NMSDC) (www.nmsdc.org). TSMSDC primarily exists to certify minority-owned firms and to create meaningful partnerships between corporate members and minority businesses. TSMSDC also has numerous other services including training, mentoring, referral, bid posting etc. TSMSDC is a non-profit 501( c )3 business to business networking organization with over 100 members and 350 certified Minority Business Enterprises (MBEs).
What is the Vision and Mission of TSMSDC:
“Minority-owned businesses thrive in our increasingly diverse and growing community” is our Vision Statement. Our Mission Statement is, “To create meaningful partnerships between corporate members and NMSDC certified minority-owned businesses that maximize mutual success”.
What is the difference between a member and a client?
Members of TSMSDC are the corporations and the public sector entities. It was these organizations that started TSMSDC and NMSDC in the early ‘70s. Clients are the minority business owners. TSMSDC serves the needs of both.
What are the criteria for certification?
TSMSDC certifies any for-profit business located in Kentucky, West Virginia and in the three counties of Indiana bordering the city of Louisville (Clark, Floyd and Harrison). To qualify as minority-owned businesses, firms must be 51% or more ethnic minority-owned, operated and controlled by a U.S. citizen (s).
Minority status is given to individuals belonging to one or more of the following groups:
- African American
- Hispanic / Latino American
- Native American
- Asian Indian American
- Asian Pacific American
Does one have to be a U.S. citizen to qualify for certification?
Yes. An applicant must be a U.S. citizen either by birth or naturalization. Being a permanent resident alone does not qualify.
Does TSMSDC certify ethnic women-owned businesses?
Yes, providing they meet the ethnic requirement listed above.
How much does certification cost?
New certification: $250
Recertification: $250
I have heard that TSMSDC frequently emails information to MBEs and Corporate Members. Why have I not received any emails from TSMSDC?
TSMSDC uses email as its primary form of contact with MBEs and Corporate Members. The email address used is the address provided to TSMSDC on the certification application. This is why your company profile always needs to be up to date.
Where is the TSMSDC located?
TSMSDC Headquarters
614 West Main Street
Suite 5500
Louisville KY 40202
TSMSDC Lexington Office
330 East Main Street
Suite 200
Lexington KY 40507
What does the Certification Committee look for in an application?
The committee is looking for minority ownership, managerial operations and control.
'Ownership by minority individuals' means the business is at least 51% owned by such individuals or, in the case of a corporation or a LLC, such individuals own at least 51% of the shares and control Corporation's Board of Directors or the LLC's Board of Managers. For more information, call the certification director at 502.625.0137.
How long does the certification process take?
The certification process ranges from 40 to 60 days depending on when the application is submitted and completeness of supporting documentation.
What are NAICS Codes?
North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) is an industry classification system that groups' establishments into industry sectors based on the activities in which they are primarily engaged. The NAICS is a comprehensive system covering the entire field of economic activities, producing and non-producing. This system replaces the former Standard Industrial Classification (SIC) designations. Corporate America and local, state, and federal government entities use NAICS codes. You are required to identify your businesses' NAICS designation code. The NMSDC and corporate buying groups use NAICS codes to identify certified MBEs.
Where may I locate my business NAICS Code?
You may locate the NAICS code at your local public library or on the internet. The Website address is www.naics.com
Is a site visit required? What if I have a home-based business?
A site visit is mandatory and conducted at the business headquarters during the review process of an application. A site visit may be conducted at a home if the business is home-based.
How can I apply for certification if I do not have Internet access?
The certification application is available online. However, one may call the Director, Minority Business Certification at 502.625.0137 to have a copy faxed or mailed. Internet access is available at public libraries and various copy centers.
How important is access to the internet and email?
Nearly all of TSMSDC’s information is sent electronically. Additionally, other corporations and MBE firms will want to communicate with you - this is an age of electronic communication for business to business, thus all are strongly encouraged to have email and Internet access.
What is the National Minority Supplier Development Council (NMSDC)?
The National Minority Supplier Development Council is the nation’s premier minority business membership organization. They are also the largest certifying organization for minority firms and the organization that most major corporations accept for certification. The Tri-State Minority Supplier Development Council (TSMSDC) is an affiliate of NMSDC; and as such, is responsible for certifying any minority-owned business that is primarily located within Kentucky, West Virginia or the Indian counties of Clark, Floyd and Harrison.
If I get certified through TSMSDC, am I certified through the National Minority Supplier Development Council?
Yes, certification obtained through TSMSDC is valid throughout the United States . However, a reciprocal certification may be necessary if you are required to hold a local certification for a particular contract or bid opportunity.
Am I eligible to be certified if I recently started my business?
Yes, there is no restriction on how long a business has been in operation.
How long is my certification valid?
Certification is valid for one year.
When do I have to recertify?
You must recertify by submitting a Recertification profile for your company at least one month prior to the expiration date or 'anniversary date' on your current certificate. We recommend you start the recertification process 30 to 60 days prior to your expiration date.
TSMSDC sends reminder notices, however you are ultimately responsible for the timely processing of your recertification. Your anniversary date will not be 'moved or changed.' Failure to recertify by the anniversary date will result in an expiration of your certification. You may find instructions on the recertification process under the 'Certification' section of the website.
What documents should I submit with my application?
All businesses must provide the following:
- Business Statement (if applicable)
- Proof of U.S. Citizenship (passport, birth certificate)
- Proof of Ethnicity for Owner(s), Partners, Shareholders (driver's license, birth certificate)
- Two Years of Federal Tax Returns (Business)*
- Financial Statements (P &L, statement of cash flows, balance sheet)
- Notes Payable (if any)
- Applicable Operating Business License and/or permits
- Lease Agreements
- Resume(s) of owner(s), partners or shareholders
- Equipment Rental and Purchase Agreements (if applicable)
- Contract or work history for the past three years (if applicable) (name/contact type of work performed or type of contract received)
- Equipment owned or available (include description of equipment, year acquired, and current value)
- Proof of Bonding Capacity (if applicable)
- Bank Signature Card (copy signature card or letter from bank)
- Indian/Native Americans Blood Degree Certificate (i.e. tribal registry letter, tribal roll register number) [if applicable]
- $250.00 non-refundable processing fee
*Personal taxes if in business less than 1 year
What documents should I submit if my business is a corporation?
For a corporation, you must provide the following:
- Article of Incorporation
- Certificate of Corporation
- Minutes of 1st Board Meeting
- Copies of Stock Certificates
- Current Stock Ledger
- Corporate Bylaws
- Proof of Stock Purchase
What documents should I submit if my business is a partnership?
For a Partnership, you must provide the following:
- Partnership Agreements
- Buy Out Rights
