North Carolina Small Business Enterprise (NCSBE)
North Carolina’s small-business certification program. [North Carolina NCSBE guidance]
North Carolina Department of Administration, Office for Small Business Enterprise. North Carolina program. Official program information
Sources reviewed .
North Carolina eliminated its HUB office effective July 7, 2026. State contracts no longer recognize HUB certification; NCSBE continues. [North Carolina small-business program update]
Who qualifies
Businesses headquartered in North Carolina with no more than 100 employees and annual net income of $1.5 million or less. [North Carolina NCSBE guidance]
- Meet all NCSBE requirements and provide the supporting documents requested in the application. [North Carolina NCSBE guidance]
Cost
A certification fee is not stated in the official sources reviewed. Ask the agency before applying. [North Carolina NCSBE guidance]
Processing time
The page states the certification process may take up to 90 days. [North Carolina NCSBE guidance]
What it unlocks
- Recognition as a North Carolina certified small business for the state’s procurement program. [North Carolina NCSBE guidance]
How to apply
- Review the NCSBE criteria and select the applicable application route. [North Carolina NCSBE guidance] Read NCSBE requirements.
- Submit the completed application and supporting records through the state’s listed process. [North Carolina NCSBE guidance] Find NCSBE application instructions.