Certified Access Academy

Certified Access Academy is a 6-week cohort-based training opportunity to support disadvantaged businesses in their efforts to become certified to compete for government and corporate contracts.

In Certified Access Academy, participants will join a virtual cohort for six weeks where they will work directly with experienced advisors to fast-track the completion of the Central Certification Program (CERT) as well as the State of Minnesota Office of State Procurement certification applications. Getting certified can help small businesses compete for contracts and open the door to sustained relationships with government buyers.

Hennepin County covers the full cost of participation for businesses based in the county, a $3,500 value. There is no cost to business owners to participate, other than time.

Hennepin County and the Hennepin County Housing and Redevelopment Authority (HCHRA) invest in Certified Access Academy as part of our strategic work to drive inclusive economic growth. 

Applications are now open for the next session of Certified Access Academy, which begins  February 19, 2026. Space is limited. Apply here by February 10.

The program will provide business owners with:

• Culturally informed consulting
• Business operations resources and training
• Guidance identifying the right certifications
• Technical assistance to complete certifications
• Access to a procurement and supplier network
  
  

Business owners will exit the program positioned to compete for government procurement opportunities.

"Even though I knew a lot in my field, navigating that process was tricky. The language could be confusing. It helped having someone break things down."

—Ebony Eromobor, founder and Certified Access Academy participant

Who is eligible?

To join Certified Access Academy, business owners must:

Non-profit ideas and franchises are not currently eligible

About the facilitation team
Certified Access Academy was developed by Certified Access, a supplier development company building an ecosystem that supports businesses in their efforts to be “sought-after suppliers” with the resources to scale and sustain competitiveness. The Certified Access Academy is a virtual group-learning opportunity to support businesses with certification guidance and collaboration.

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* Pictured above: A 2024 graduating class of Certified Access Academy.