The Economically Disadvantaged Women-Owned Small Business (EDWOSB) program is a specialized initiative administered by the Small Business Administration (SBA) that aims to support and advance women in entrepreneurship, particularly those facing economic disadvantages. This program provides preferential consideration for certain government contracts to businesses that meet stringent eligibility criteria.
To qualify as an EDWOSB, a business must first satisfy all the criteria set forth in the Women-Owned Small Business (WOSB) Federal Contract program. Additional specific requirements for EDWOSB certification include:
- Ownership and Control: The business must be at least 51% owned and controlled by one or more women, with each woman having a personal net worth of less than $850,000.
- Income Requirements: Each woman owner must have an adjusted gross income of $450,000 or less, averaged over the previous three years.
- Asset Limitation: Each woman owner must possess $6.5 million or less in personal assets.
These requirements ensure that the benefits of the program are directed towards those who need them most, aiming to level the playing field for women entrepreneurs who are economically disadvantaged. For more detailed guidelines and information on the application process, refer to Title 13 Part 127 Subpart B of the Code of Federal Regulations. This resource provides comprehensive details about the program’s structure and operational procedures.
