Are you a minority‑owned, women‑owned or disability‑owned business looking to expand your reach? The State of Illinois’ Business Enterprise Program (BEP) opens the door to powerful contracting opportunities designed to elevate diverse businesses. Through this free certification, qualifying vendors gain increased visibility in the state’s public directory, access to projects with diversity goals and the ability to compete for state contracts — where agencies and universities (including Sandburg) aim to award at least 20% of their spending to BEP‑certified vendors.
Our college is committed to helping local businesses grow. Join us for our monthly BEP Certification Info Sessions, where you’ll learn how the certification works, why it matters, and how to successfully navigate the application process. Whether you're just getting started or strengthening your presence in state procurement, this is your opportunity to take the next step toward greater visibility, credibility and growth!
Upcoming sessions
March 20
April 17
May 22
June 26
July 17
Aug. 21
Sept. 18
Oct. 16
Nov. 20
Dec. 18
All sessions will be held from noon-1 p.m. and will be located at the Galesburg campus / room C105. All dates will also have a virtual option available via Teams upon request.
Email community@sandburg.edu or call 309.345.3501 to register.
Frequently asked questions
What is BEP certification?
The Business Enterprise Program (BEP) is an Illinois state certification designed to increase contracting opportunities for minority‑owned, women‑owned and persons‑with‑disabilities‑owned businesses. It ensures equitable access to state procurement by verifying that eligible businesses are at least 51% owned and controlled by individuals in these groups. The program was established under the Business Enterprise for Minorities, Women, and Persons with Disabilities Act (30 ILCS 575) to promote diversity, inclusion and fair participation in state contracting opportunities.
Key benefits
- Access to state contracting opportunities: Illinois state agencies and universities (including Sandburg) aim to award at least 20% of their contracts to BEP‑certified vendors.
- Visibility in a public directory: Certified businesses appear in CEI’s public online vendor directory, making them more visible to procurement professionals and prime contractors.
- Recognition by multiple municipalities & organizations: BEP certification is widely accepted and often recognized by local governments and private organizations supporting supplier diversity.
- Opportunity to compete for “sheltered market” projects: Certification can open access to special opportunities restricted to BEP-certified vendors.
- Increased marketability: Certified businesses are more appealing to prime contractors needing to meet diversity participation goals.
Cost of BEP certification
BEP certification is completely free for eligible businesses through the Illinois Commission on Equity and Inclusion (CEI).
Who qualifies?
- Be at least 51% owned by a minority, woman or person with a disability.
- Have that ownership group also control day‑to‑day operations and decision‑making.
- Have an owner who is a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident.
- Have annual gross sales under $150 million.
What will participants learn in our monthly info sessions?
- Step‑by‑step guidance on the certification application.
- Required documentation and how to prepare it.
- How BEP certification increases business contracting opportunities.
- How Sandburg can support your certification journey.
Have other questions?
Email community@sandburg.edu, or call 309.345.3501.