Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) Program
The California Department of Transportation, through the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), requires the County of San Luis Obispo to adopt and execute a Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) Program for the hiring of disadvantaged businesses for projects receiving Federal-aid funds. Disadvantaged Business Enterprises are defined as those for-profit small businesses where 51% of the business (as defined by the United States Small Business Administration) is owned by one or more socially and economically disadvantaged individuals and whose management and daily business operations are controlled by one or more of the socially and economically disadvantaged individuals who own it.
Who is eligible?
In order for small disadvantaged firms to participate as a DBE in FHWA-assisted contracts, they must apply for and receive certification as a DBE. In California, DBE certification is performed by the certifying agencies of the California Unified Certification Program (CUCP). Information regarding how to become a certified DBE is available through Caltrans Office of Business & Economic Opportunity website.
When and where is this service offered?
This service is available 24/7 through the Caltrans Office of Business & Economic Opportunity website.
