Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) Program

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About the DBE Program

The Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) Program is a federal program designed to help small businesses owned by socially and economically disadvantaged individuals compete in the marketplace. The program provides a level playing field for these businesses to participate in federally-funded contracts and grants.

Benefits of the DBE Program

  • Access to federally-funded contracts and grants
  • Increased visibility for your business
  • Technical assistance and business development resources
  • Networking opportunities with other DBE firms and prime contractors

Eligibility for the DBE Program

To be eligible for the DBE Program, a business must:

  • Be a small business as defined by the Small Business Administration (SBA)
  • Be at least 51% owned by one or more socially and economically disadvantaged individuals
  • Be managed and controlled by one or more socially and economically disadvantaged individuals
  • Be a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident
  • Meet other eligibility criteria as defined by the Department of Transportation (DOT)

Certification for the DBE Program

To participate in the DBE Program, a business must be certified. Certification is based on thoroughly reviewing the business and its owners to determine eligibility. Once certified, the business will be listed in the state or local DBE directory.

Resources for DBE Firms

Here are some resources related to the Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) program in Georgia:

  1. Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) DBE Program: GDOT’s DBE program is designed to promote the participation of disadvantaged businesses in highway and transit construction projects. You can find information about the program, including certification requirements, application forms, and upcoming events, on GDOT’s DBE program website: https://www.dot.ga.gov/PS/Business/DBEProgram
  2. Georgia Minority Supplier Development Council (GMSDC): GMSDC is a nonprofit organization that promotes the growth and development of minority-owned businesses in Georgia. The organization provides certification assistance, networking opportunities, and training and development programs for minority-owned businesses. You can find more information on the GMSDC website: https://gmsdc.org/
  3. Georgia Department of Administrative Services (DOAS): DOAS provides resources and support to small businesses, including minority-owned and women-owned businesses, looking to do business with the state of Georgia. The department also provides certification assistance for businesses seeking state procurement opportunities. You can find more information on the DOAS website: https://doas.ga.gov/small-business-outreach-and-procurement-assistance.

For more local information, contact the Macon-Bibb County office of Small Business Affairs: https://www.maconbibb.us/small-business-affairs/

Contact Us

If you have questions about the DBE Program, please contact:

Mark Strozier
Transit Planner