CBI Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Charlotte Business INClusion Program?

The Charlotte Business INClusion program is designed to promote diversity, inclusion, and local business opportunities in the city's contracting and procurement process for businesses headquartered in the Charlotte Combined Statistical Area.

To find out if you are eligible for the City of Charlotte Small Business Enterprise (SBE) certification, download the City of Charlotte SBE Application.

Why is the city committed to CBI?

The Charlotte Business INClusion program provides benefits for both the city and the business community in our region. Participation in the program helps the city increase its contracting opportunities with SBE companies, resulting in greater job availability and business growth for the local business community. In addition to contributing to the economic well-being of the region, bringing new SBEs into the pool of companies doing business with the city enhances the city's competitive bidding processes and allows the city to track its spending with SBE firms.

How do I go about getting certified as a Small Business Enterprise (SBE)?

You can access the SBE application online by visiting the Small Business Certification page.

For questions on the application process, please call 704.336.4137 and press Prompt "1" for certification.

Does having a P.O. Box or an office in the Charlotte Combined Statistical Area (CSA) allow me to participate in the city's CBI program?

Your firm must have a significant business presence in the Charlotte CSA. The CSA includes the following counties in North Carolina: Anson, Cabarrus, Cleveland, Gaston, Iredell, Lincoln, Mecklenburg, Rowan, Stanly, and Union; and the following counties in South Carolina: Chester, Lancaster, and York. The City will evaluate a business enterprise's significant business presence based on all of the evidence supplied by the business enterprise. Several factors will be used to determine significant business presence including, but not limited to:

  • whether the business Enterprise is headquartered in the Charlotte CSA;

  • number of full-time employees;

  • location of managerial or decision-making personnel;

  • lease agreement;

  • post office box, mail drop, or message center;

  • previous work or contracts performed in the Charlotte CSA; and

  • percentage of income or revenue derived from Charlotte CSA.

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