Virginia Department of Small Business and Supplier Diversity (SBSD)

Mission:
The Virginia Department of Small Business and Supplier Diversity (SBSD) is dedicated to providing education, assistance, economic opportunity, and access to capital to foster employment and economic growth for small businesses throughout the Commonwealth of Virginia.

Core Services and Programs:

• Business Certification:
• Offers several certification types, including SWaM (Small, Women-owned, and Minority-owned businesses), Disadvantaged Business Enterprise, Service Disabled Veterans, and Employment Services Organization certifications.
• Provides certification tutorials, application assistance, and maintains a directory listing of certified businesses.
• Financing and Capital Access:
• Through the Virginia Small Business Financing Authority (VSBFA), SBSD offers a range of financing programs:
  • Child Care Financing Program
  • Microloan Program
  • Economic Development Loan Fund
  • Cash Collateral Program
  • Loan Guaranty Program
  • SSBCI 2.0
  • Small Business Investment Grant Fund
  • Bond Program
  • Agricultural Disaster Microloan Program
• Business Development and Outreach:
• Delivers business development resources such as SCALING4GROWTH, Business One Stop, and recorded training sessions.
• Hosts SBSD and partner events to connect businesses with opportunities and resources.
• Sourcing & Compliance:
• Provides resources for buyers and maintains compliance information for procurement processes.
• Public Information and Transparency:
• Ensures public access to records and information in accordance with the Virginia Freedom of Information Act (FOIA).

Who They Serve:

• Small businesses, including those owned by women, minorities, and service-disabled veterans, across Virginia.
• The service area includes Louisa County and all other counties in the Commonwealth.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Eligibility varies by program and certification type. Generally, businesses must meet specific criteria related to size, ownership, and operational status to qualify for certifications or financing programs.

Additional Information:

• SBSD is committed to access, opportunity, efficiency, and inclusion, aiming to help Virginia businesses thrive and contribute to the state’s economic vitality.
• The department provides a comprehensive suite of resources, forms, and FAQs to guide businesses through certification and financing processes.

Note: For detailed eligibility and application requirements, contact the organization directly or visit the official website.