Certified Local Businesses
A dedicated program recognizing locally owned and operated businesses across Southwest Virginia, so residents can identify the businesses that keep our regional economy strong.
Applications are not open yet.
Eligibility standards, the review process, and the certification agreement are being finalized. No certifications have been issued and no certification payments are being accepted at this time. This page describes the intended program so businesses and residents can prepare.
What certification means
Certified Local Business is a standalone recognition program. It is separate from every SWVA Connections Co. partnership level and is never bundled into, or required for, partnership participation.
Certification confirms that a business has been reviewed against defined local-ownership and operating standards and is currently in good standing. It is a recognition of eligibility as defined by this program only.
Certification is
- · An independent, annual recognition of qualifying locally owned businesses.
- · Reviewed and approved by program administrators.
- · Available whether or not a business is an SWVA partner.
Certification is not
- · Government approval, licensing, or endorsement of any kind.
- · A guarantee of business quality, pricing, or service outcomes.
- · A partnership tier, upgrade, or required add-on.
What certified businesses will receive
The following benefits describe the intended program. Details may change before applications open.
Local ownership eligibility review
Each application is reviewed against published ownership and operating standards.
Annual certification
Certification is reviewed and renewed each year rather than granted permanently.
Official digital certification seal
An approved seal for use on your website, profiles, and printed materials.
Downloadable certificate
A printable certificate of certification for your storefront or office.
Unique certification number
A reference number that ties the certification to your business record.
Public verification profile
A verification page customers can check to confirm certification status.
Certified Local Businesses directory
Placement in the directory of currently certified businesses.
Certification status indicator
A visible indicator showing current certification standing.
Approved certification branding
Access to the approved badge and branding usage guidelines.
Optional physical decal and certificate
Optional printed materials for use at your location, ordered separately.
How the program will work
- Certification is not automatically granted after payment.
- Businesses must meet defined eligibility requirements.
- Certification is approved through an administrator-controlled review.
- A business can be certified without becoming a SWVA partner.
- A business can become a SWVA partner without purchasing certification.
- Certification records and partnership records remain separate.
Introductory pricing for the program is under review and will be published before applications open.
Interested in certification?
Partnership and certification are separate choices. You can explore how partnership works today, or get in touch to be notified when certification applications open.