Q: How Do I Get USPAACC-Certified as an Asian American-Owned Business?

A: The US Pan Asian American Chamber of Commerce (USPAACC) strongly encourages Asian American businesses to get USPAACC certification as an Asian American-owned business as this could increase business opportunities with Fortune companies and federal government agencies as subcontractors. Below are some of the frequently asked questions about applying for USPAACC certification:

Q: I am a USPAACC member and I have paid my annual dues. Does this make me a USPAACC-certified member?

A: USPAACC certification is not automatically assigned to members. USPAACC membership is categorized into two types: certified and non-certified. Although both types of members receive the full benefits offered to members, certified members have the added advantage of being selected for consideration for minority contract opportunities when they become available. This gives USPAACC-certified members a clear competitive advantage.

Q: What is the process of certification?

A: The certification process involves the completion and submission of an application to USPAACC. We would then verify the information provided for accuracy and eligibility. The process is a rigorous one. It also requires a site visit.

Q: How long does it take to get USPAACC-certified?

A: The certification process normally takes two to three months, depending on the applicant’s timely production of completed and required documents. Delay is often due to incomplete documents.

Q: Do we have to be Asian American-owned to be certified?

A: Yes. The business should be 51% owned, managed and operated by Asian American(s) (Level I) or legal permanent resident (Level II). Proof of ownership or legal permanent resident status is required. Copies of the owner’s birth certificate, naturalization certificate, passport and/or permanent residence documents must be submitted to USPAACC in order to be certified.

Q: What happens after I become USPAACC-certified?

A: Once a member has been certified by USPAACC, their company information is placed in a certified database. When contract opportunities come in, these USPAACC-certified companies are the first ones to be contacted and matched with the corporations looking to contract with minority-owned businesses. We then connect them with the corporations to take the next step toward a business relationship.

Q: Is USPAACC different from other certifying organizations?

A: USPAACC has two levels of certification: Level I, for businesses owned, managed and operated by U.S. citizens; and Level II, for businesses owned, managed and operated by Asian immigrants who have been permanent residents for three years or more. This inclusive process opens the doors to permanent residents who pay taxes, who themselves or their children have served in the U.S. military, and who are contributing members to the U.S. economy. It ensures more varied capabilities and offers a wider selection of suppliers in the procurement market.

Q: What are the other benefits of being USPAACC-certified?

A: USPAACC is proud to be a strong link to Fortune companies. With almost two decades of relationship with Fortune companies and federal agencies, USPAACC has a proven track record in making successful and viable matches among its members.

Q: I am already SBA-certified. Do I still have to be certified by USPAACC?

A: It is to the member’s advantage if they apply for USPAACC certification, in addition to being certified by the SBA. There is an added-value to being USPAACC-certified because of the identification of being Asian American-owned, the availability of strong links to Fortune companies and key federal agencies, and the prestige of belonging to a national organization with a good reputation and tremendous networking opportunities.

Q: Will I undergo an easier certification process if I am already SBA-certified and vice versa?

A: In a Memorandum of Understanding signed in May between the SBA and USPAACC, there is a provision that permits a faster certification process if a business owner has already been certified by the

 

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