Connectus Worldwide is a new consulting firm that aides minority-, women-, disadvantaged-, veteran- and LGBTQ-owned companies seeking corporate and governmental certification.

Founded by Mary Shannon, who retired from a Fortune 500 company earlier this year, Connectus Worldwide provides a variety of services to diverse businesses, while also connecting such enterprises with majority organizations. The firm consults in areas of supplier diversity, public engagement and mediation.

Instead of slowing down after retirement, Shannon wanted to share her professional experiences with others.

“I thought that there were still people that I could serve because I wasn’t really looking at (Connectus Worldwide) as a new company — I was looking at more transforming, in transferring my skill set gained in corporate into my business,” said Shannon.

Alongside Shannon is Karen Slaughter, managing partner, who is trained in mediation and project management.

A focus of Connectus Worldwide’s services is its consulting through the pre-application process for targeted certifications such as Minority or Women Business Enterprise certifications.

“Certification provides an opportunity for growth through increased visibility,” said Shannon. “The process of understanding, gathering and submitting the documentation required can be time-consuming and laborious.”

Through the use of project management software, Connectus Worldwide has developed an automated, secure client portal where businesses can gather and submit required documentation in a confidential and encrypted space. The software also tracks the submission of documentation and notifies clients of filing status with the certifying agency. Shannon and Slaughter review all client submissions, ensuring professionalism and accuracy, helping clients to feel confident in their applications.

Since launching this month, Connectus Worldwide has already engaged a handful of clients, Shannon said.