The Kansas City Small Business Enterprise (KCSBE) Program is the City's interim certification program established under Ordinance 260692.

A KCSBE is generally a for-profit business that:

• Is at least 51% owned, managed, and controlled by one or more economically disadvantaged individuals.
• Meets applicable business size standards.
• Meets applicable personal net worth requirements.
• Has a real and substantial presence in the Kansas City metropolitan area.
• Performs a commercially useful function.
• Is certified by CREO.

Certified firms may be counted toward applicable contract participation goals established by the City.

Yes. If you are currently certified, log in to the City’s certification system and review your status. You will receive an email through the B2Gnow portal when action is required. You can also check the outreach bulletin board.

You will be asked to complete a brief form confirming your participation in the new race- and gender-neutral KCSBE certification program.

The M/WBE Program established under prior City ordinances has been repealed pursuant to Ordinance 260690. Existing certifications will not be used under the new program structure going forward.

Businesses that wish to participate in the new program should seek certification under the interim KCSBE/SBE framework if they meet eligibility requirements. CREO will reach out to you with instructions. 

 If you are not currently certified, applications and certification management are available through the City's certification portal:

https://kcmohrd.gob2g.com

Businesses should submit all required documentation through the DBE certification system and follow application instructions provided by CREO. Allow sufficient time for application review and processing.

CREO uses a standardized form for our certification programs. When you complete the DBE application, our certifying officers will review your application for all certification programs for which you are eligible, including the new KCSBE program. 

No.

Certification:

• Does not guarantee a contract award.
• Does not guarantee subcontracting opportunities.
• Does not guarantee participation on any specific project.

Businesses must still respond to solicitations, meet procurement requirements, and compete for work through City contracting processes.

Yes, but goals will be established under the new program structure.

Ordinance 260692 establishes a citywide annual local SBE goal of 30 percent. Individual contract goals will continue to be evaluated and established on a contract-by-contract basis based on the availability of certified firms and other applicable factors.

Existing contracts will continue to move forward.

For contracts already awarded:

• Existing contract requirements remain in place unless otherwise modified by the City.
• Contractors must continue complying with reporting and monitoring requirements.
• Prompt payment and other contractual obligations remain in effect.
• Requests to replace subcontractors must continue to follow applicable contract requirements and approval processes.

CREO will continue monitoring contracts throughout the transition.

CREO is currently developing a permanent business enterprise program and seeking community feedback.

The current draft proposal includes:

• Local Business Enterprise (LBE)
• Local Small Business Enterprise (LSBE)
• Emerging Business Enterprise (EBE)

Additional proposed elements include:

• A citywide participation goal of 35%.
• Department utilization planning.
• Contract-specific goal setting.
• Certification and compliance procedures.
• Mentor-protégé opportunities.
• Joint venture opportunities.
• Small business development services.
• Appeals and oversight processes.

The final program will be presented to City leadership for consideration following task force and stakeholder engagement.

CREO is seeking input from:

• Current and former certified businesses.
• Small businesses.
• Prime contractors.
• Developers.
• Trade associations.
• Advocacy organizations.
• Technical assistance providers.
• City departments and agencies.

Stakeholders are encouraged to participate in upcoming public meetings, informational sessions, surveys, and written comment opportunities.

Businesses should:

1. Review their current certification status.
2. Update business records as needed.
3. Apply for KCSBE certification if eligible.
4. Monitor CREO communications regarding implementation.
5. Participate in stakeholder engagement opportunities for the new proposed program.

The City's goal is to create a business enterprise program that is legally sustainable, transparent, practical, and supportive of small and local businesses while maintaining meaningful opportunities to participate in City contracting.