Table of Contents
- What Is Women-Owned Business Certification?
- Eligibility Requirements
- Key Benefits
- Required Documents
- Application Procedure
- Validity and Renewal
- FAQ
1. What Is Women-Owned Business Certification?
The Women-Owned Business Certification (여성기업 확인) is issued by the Ministry of SMEs and Startups under the Act on Support for Women's Businesses. It confirms that a business is effectively owned and managed by a woman.
2. Eligibility Requirements
- A woman must hold more than 30% of shares (or be the sole proprietor)
- The female owner must be the representative (CEO)
- The business must be an SME
3. Key Benefits
- Priority in government procurement bidding
- Access to dedicated loan programs and subsidies
- Preference in public-funded business support programs
- Participation in women-business-exclusive procurement categories
4. Required Documents
- Application form
- Corporate registry extract
- Shareholder register
- Business registration certificate
- Representative's ID
5. Application Procedure
- Online application at the Women's Business Center portal
- Document review (approx. 14 business days)
- Certificate issuance
6. Validity and Renewal
Certificates are valid for 3 years and must be renewed before expiry to maintain procurement preferences.
FAQ
Q. Can a foreign national female CEO apply?
A. Yes, as long as the business is registered in Korea and meets all other eligibility criteria.
Q. Does this apply to sole proprietorships?
A. Yes, both corporations and sole proprietorships are eligible.
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