IAOB Small Supplier Initial Certification Sponsorship

Small suppliers can face significant challenges in the implementation of something new, even if that new process or system has significant long-term benefits. IAOB is offering to sponsor a limited number of small suppliers each year to achieve initial certification to IATF 16949. Those small suppliers must meet certain criteria and only some initial certification costs are covered. Please see below the eligibility criteria, cost exclusions and the submission form for you to complete and submit if you believe you qualify for this initial audit sponsorship program.

What will happen after I submit the submission form?

  • The form will be reviewed within a month of submission to confirm eligibility
  • You will be informed if the application has been accepted or if changes are required to meet eligibility requirements
  • Once the application is accepted, you proceed with the stage 1 readiness review and stage 2 initial audit
  • IAOB will then work with your Certification Body to make arrangements to pay for the completed stage 1 readiness review and stage 2 initial audit costs (see exclusions below)
  • Once certified, you continue with the process to maintain your site’s IATF certification

Small Supplier Certification Sponsorship Criteria

  • 75 employees or fewer at the supplier involved in executing the automotive QMS
  • Gross revenue for the site < $30million
  • IAOB sponsored CB conducting stage 1 and stage 2 initial audit
  • Member of AIAG (includes free membership for small companies)
  • AIAG Core Tools Assessment completed by key personnel
  • Recommend use and implementation of Core Tools Software
  • Signed contract with IAOB IATF CB and stage 1 date confirmed
  • Not currently certified to IATF and not certified to IATF in the last 3 years
  • Supplier located in North America

Initial audit costs included in the sponsorship

  • Stage 1 readiness review and stage 2 audit day charges

Initial audit cost sponsorship exclusions

  • Internal costs to develop and implement the QMS to meet IATF requirements
  • Auditor travel cost, including hotel and food
  • Additional certification body fees for certificates, administration, etc.
  • Ongoing CB audit and internal costs to maintain certification

CB Audit Time Cost Reimbursement Form

CB Reimbursement Form available here.

Submission Form

Submitter Information


Supplier Information


Note: Only suppliers located in North America are eligible at this time

Note: Only pdf files accepted

Certification Status History


Note: Only pdf files accepted

Current Contracted Certification Body


Customer OEM Information