Certifiable? It’s undeniable.

January 19, 2017

The other day, there was some celebrating over at Impact PR & Communications’ offices. That’s because we checked off our first business goal of 2017, and less than two weeks into the new calendar year. The great news? The reason our founder was seen high-fiving the rest of the team and woo-hooing? (We know you want to know. Drum roll, please…)

We were granted official status as a certified Women Business Enterprise (WBE) by the New York State Department of Economic Development, Division of Minority and Women’s Business Development (DMWBD).

For those who know all of us and our public relations and communications work, you know we’re currently an all-femme team, so woman-owned and operated is simply who we are. Still, firming up things with the new designation means that the public and private companies we manage media opportunities on behalf of, write copy for, plot successful events with, secure speaking engagements and awards for and more will get credit where credit is due. Our WBE certification allows them to be acknowledged for their commitment to supplier diversity and inclusivity. Plus, it helps our clients with needs to fill mandates, when applicable, through New York State. Cynthia Marsh-Croll, project director at the Women’s Enterprise Development Center (WEDC), notes, “Not only is there a 30-percent diversity requirement in place for all New York State contracts, but those who are funded by the state have MWBE requirements as well. Whether an operation is a solopreneur or small business, this is an opportunity that is expanding and anyone who is eligible should apply.”

Exciting, eh? Impact spent countless hours in the application process and underwent an extensive review of its financial standing and stability (good news – we made the grade!). Now, we’re ready to put this certification to work for our existing not-for-profit, tourism, real estate and construction clients and use our new credentials to partner with some new ones. And we’re ready to encourage our fellow female and minority-owned businesses to do the same.

Look out 2017, we’re coming to get you!