Disadvantaged Business Enterprise
The Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) certification program is a Federal program. The purpose is to increase the participation of certified DBEs in projects funded by the US Department of Transportation and other federal sectors. Projects typically include heavy construction, such as building and designing roads, bridges, railroads, ports, and airports.
The Program is governed by the U.S. Federal Regulations in 49 CFR Parts 26 and 23.
The Virginia Unified Certification Program includes two certifying agencies:
- The Department of Small Business and Supplier Diversity (DSBSD)
- The Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority (MWAA)
There is no need to submit an application to both agencies. Federal DBE certification by either agency is fully accepted throughout Virginia.
If you plan to participate in the procurement process with one of the Commonwealth of Virginia’s state agencies that does not receive federal transportation funds, you need to apply for SWaM certification, not DBE certification. To apply for SWaM certification, please click here.
The DBE certification process differs depending on if you are an in-state or out-of-state firm.
All DBE applications and documents must now be submitted electronically by uploading via the new application system:
Please start by answering no more than four multiple choice questions, and we will use your responses to direct you to the DBE page with the DBE/ACDBE information and forms relevant to your specific and current needs and circumstances. It should only take about one minute or less to answer these four (or less) questions:
If you need assistance in applying for the DBE certification, please contact our regional offices for appointments with the Business Development Specialists. Click here for office contact information.
DBE Information and Regulations
Additional Information and Regulations Governing DBE is below.
VDOT requires prospective bidders to be prequalified for all construction and maintenance contracts. The contractor prequalification is also necessary for subcontractors.
Title 49 – Transportation, Part 26 – Participation by Disadvantaged Business Enterprises in Department of Transportation Financial Assistance Programs.
Request for copies of DBE file by Company Owner.