DBE Certifications in Delaware

Explore DBE Certification programs available in Delaware

Delaware Department of Transportation (DelDOT) reviews each US Department of Transportation-assisted contract (USDOT) and creates DBE goals based on each one to guarantee equal opportunity. The main goals of the DelDOT program can be found on https://deldot.gov/Business/dbe/ and are listed below:

  1. To ensure nondiscrimination in the award and administration of all DelDOT contracts;
  2. To create a level playing field on which small businesses and DBE’s can compete fairly for participation in federal-aid contracts;
  3. To ensure that the DBE Program is narrowly tailored in accordance with applicable federal and state law;
  4. To make certain that only firms that fully meet 49 CFR Part 26 eligibility standards are permitted to participate in our program;
  5. To help remove barriers to the participation of DBE’s and small businesses in DOT-assisted contracts;
  6. To assist the development of firms so that they are able to compete successfully in the marketplace outside of the DBE Program;
  7. To achieve increased small business participation in federal-aid contracts through race- and gender-neutral means

 

Statewide Certification Programs

In the state of Delaware, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has offered funding to the Delaware River and Bay Authority (DRPA) for projects related to DRBA airport facilities. In return, the DRBA has enacted a Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) Program which follows the principles of the U.S. Department of Transportation, 49 CFR Part 26. This policy of the DRBA is to ensure that DBEs that fit the criteria of 49 CFR Part 26, have a fair chance to take part in the DRPA’s FAA-assisted agreements.

The Delaware River and Bay Authority is a member of the Unified Certification Program (UCP) in both Delaware and New Jersey. Because of this, the DRBA will not issue Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) certifications but acknowledges them from the UCPs of both Delaware and New Jersey. If you are interested in learning more about these certifications, visit Delaware Department of Transportation DBE Program.

State Supplier Diversity Program

The DRBA has a policy to assist and provide opportunities to diverse suppliers, while guaranteeing that the Authority is getting the most superior products and services at affordable prices. The DRBA has implemented the Supplier Diversity Program to support, regulate and promote an equal opportunity for every eligible company that is looking to do business.

DRBA’s Official Supplier Diversity Policy and Program helps create business opportunities for underprivileged, minority and woman-owned companies.

The Office of Supplier Diversity (OSD) has one application available for all diverse and small business certification needs. To apply for the Diverse Small Business Certification, complete and submit this application to the Office of Supplier Diversity. While under review of eligibility for certification as a diverse or small business, a copy of your current license credential is required.

A Diverse Business is exclusive to businesses that are at least 51% owned and run by minorities including women, veterans, individuals with disabilities, or other minority segments in Delaware. If the company at question is intended for financial gain and at least 51% owned and operated by U.S. Citizens or Permanent Residents in any of the groups listed below, your business may be considered a Diverse Business:

  • Minority Business Enterprise (MBE)
  • Woman Business Enterprise (WBE)
  • Veteran Owned Business Enterprise (VOBE)
  • Service Disabled Veteran Owned Business Enterprise (SDVOBE)
  • Individuals with Disabilities Owned Business Enterprise (IWDBE)

A Small Business is defined based on two things: the amount of Full Time Equivalent (FTE) individuals employed and gross revenue, both averaged over three years. If you are interested in more information, the application goes into detail on eligibility requirements. If your company is a for-profit organization, is not managed by an organization larger than the size of eligibility, and falls in an industry category listed below, your company may qualify as a Small Business:

  • Architecture and Engineering Services
  • Construction
  • Manufacturing
  • Retail
  • Service
  • Wholesale

The DRBA does not issue Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) and Women Business Enterprise (WBE) certifications, but acknowledges them from both Delaware and New Jersey. If you are interested in learning more about these certifications, visit: Delaware Office of Supplier Diversity.

Local and Regional Programs

City of Wilmington – Small and Minority Business Enterprise Office (SMBEO)

Wilmington’s SMBEO takes on responsibilities of the Equal Opportunity/Contract Compliance Office, which involves supporting DBE in becoming engaged in Wilmington’s procurement process. The city has put regulations in place in an effort to increase chances of contracting opportunities for small and minority businesses.

The Women’s Business Enterprise Council East

The Women’s Business Enterprise Center (WBEC) East certifies woman-owned businesses in Pennsylvania, Delaware, and Southern New Jersey. This Woman Business Enterprise (WBE) certification is accepted by more than 700 organizations, corporations, and governments through this region. As an affiliate of the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC), this program offers access to numerous resources and benefits for all certified members. Businesses that are at least 51% owned and operated by a woman who is a U.S. citizen may qualify. To apply, click here.

Eastern Minority Supplier Development Council MBE Program

Businesses owned by minorities in Delaware can receive a Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) certification from the Eastern Minority Supplier Development Council (EMSDC). By certifying through this program, businesses can utilize exclusive resources and events, increase exposure to business opportunities, and access government and public contracts. To qualify, businesses must be for-profit and at least 51% owned by a U.S. citizen who is at least 25% Black, Native American, Hispanic, or Asian. To apply, click here.