Small and Underutilized Businesses

Access to Markets opens doors — for every business. Expanding into new markets is essential for business growth. Whether you’re a small business, microenterprise, or entrepreneur, government contracting can be a powerful way to expand your reach.

Explore policy, procurement, and certification resources that connect businesses with state, federal, and private-sector market opportunities — and turn potential into progress.

📌 Visit TN SmartStart to locate resources and guides to help you.

Entrepreneurs with Disabilities

Programs, Resources, Certification

Minority Business Enterprises

Programs, Resources, Certification 

  • GO-BID - registration, certification, contracting for Minority Business Enterprise (MBE)
  • Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA) – programs deliver customized business development and industry-focused services 
  • Office of Native American Affairs – seeks to ensure access to the necessary business development and expansion tools through SBA
  • TriState Minority Supplier Development Council  - works to build business partnerships between minority businesses (suppliers) and major corporations (purchasers); certifying agency; member-based, non-profit
  • SBA 8(a) – training and technical assistance designed to strengthen their ability to compete effectively

Small Business Enterprise 

Programs, Resources, Certification

  • GO-BID - registration, certification, contracting for Small Business Enterprise (SBE)
  • Office of Small Business Advocate - assists in resolution of issues concerning small businesses and state agencies and small businesses and federal agencies
  • SBA 8(a) Program - training and technical assistance designed to strengthen their ability to compete effectively
  • SBA Mentor-Protégé Program (MPP) - learn from an experienced government contractors
  • SCORE - national nonprofit resource partner offering free mentoring and training, including guidance on certification
  • Tennessee APEX Accelerator - provides training, counseling, and technical assistance to help small businesses compete for government contracts

Veteran Business Enterprises

Programs, Resources, Certification

Women Business Enterprises

Programs, Resources, Certification

This section provides additional resources for those businesses outside formal state and federal certification categories on commonly requested topics.