Erin LaCombe found a specialized niche for her firm, but it’s far from a safe harbor. Like many small business owners, she gained a competitive advantage by earning an official stamp of approval validating her firm’s status as woman-owned.
Now, the value of such stamps — known as certifications — is being challenged by abrupt shifts in federal policy rippling through the small business economy. Small business owners must reassess the importance of completing the expensive and time-consuming certification process. Meanwhile, the organizations that operate the certification machinery are seizing on new ways to stay relevant.
Twenty years ago, LaCombe founded CV Strategies, which concentrates on complex and technically challenging communications surrounding utility, construction, water districts and other high-profile projects. Her 20-person team helps clients make their cases to the public, regulators and public officials…