MB Piland has earned renewed certification as a Women Business Enterprise from the State of Kansas. The WBE designation is one of the most widely recognized and respected certifications in the nation.

Attaining the certification is rigorous, and includes evaluations of a firm's business plan, promotional activities, financial management, purchasing and HR policies. It also entails an in-depth site visit and interview process. Once the certification is earned, it must be maintained with yearly oversight by Kansas Department of Transportation and the Office of Minority & Women Business Development at the Kansas Department of Commerce.

“I’m proud to have received this certification,” says Martha Bartlett Piland, President + CEO of MB Piland. “This third-party approval offers us an additional level of credibility in the marketplace. And it tells our clients and prospects that we’re a topnotch business.

The Greater Topeka Chamber of Commerce/GO Topeka worked with local legislators and Governor Sebelius’s office to make a WBE designation available in Kansas. Previously, women-owned businesses in other states could vie for this certification, but Kansans couldn’t. It significantly helps level the playing field when we’re competing for business with firms in other states.

According to Women Entrepreneur Online, “WBE Certification is akin to the UL seal of approval for electric appliances: The business has been “tested” and gives the purchaser comfort that a woman really does have the majority ownership and control of the company.” This is especially important for companies who seek supplier diversity.

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