DBE Certifications in New Jersey
New Jersey offers Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) certifications to encourage success and equality in government and public contract awardance throughout the state. Businesses that are at least 51% owned and operated by ‘disadvantaged’ individuals of the population may qualify for a New Jersey DBE certification. This categorization applies to businesses owned by minorities, women, veterans, disabled veterans, and any other socially and economically disadvantaged person, as well as small businesses. There are several statewide, local, and regional DBE programs throughout New Jersey, giving businesses in every region the best opportunities to access lucrative opportunities and succeed.
Statewide Certification Programs
New Jersey Unified Certification Program (NJUCP)
Statewide DBE certifications are granted to qualifying businesses through the New Jersey Unified Certification Program (NJUCP). This program works to ensure equality in the administering and awarding of contracts funded by the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) for all New Jersey businesses. This statewide program serves as a “one-stop shop” for all businesses looking to get certified through the state and is accepted by governments, agencies, and organizations throughout New Jersey. Qualifying businesses must be at least 51% owned and operated by a disadvantaged individual and must meet financial and size requirements. To apply, complete this application and Personal Net Worth Statement and submit them to one of the following agencies:
- New Jersey Transit
- The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey
- New Jersey Department of Transportation
New Jersey Department of Transportation SBE Program
The New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT) is dedicated to facilitating equal and fair bid competition for businesses within the state. In addition to certifying business through NJUCP, the NJDOT also offers certifications for small businesses. To qualify, businesses must meet SBA size standards, meet financial requirements, and be at least 51% owned and controlled by an economically disadvantaged individual. To apply, click on the link below.
New Jersey Business Portal
The New Jersey Department of Revenue and Enterprise offers several business certifications through its Business Portal. This service offers numerous resources for any company looking to do business within the state. Through the Business Portal, businesses can obtain Minority Business Enterprise (MBE), Woman Business Enterprise (WBE), Veteran Owned Business (VOB), Disabled Veteran Owned Business (DVOB), and Emerging Small Business Enterprise (ESBE) certifications. To apply, click on the links below.
- MBE (Minority Business Enterprise)
- WBE (Woman Business Enterprise)
- VOB (Veteran Owned Business)
- DVOB (Disabled Veteran Owned Business)
- ESBE (Emerging Small Business Enterprise)
The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey
The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey (PANYNJ) certifies disadvantaged businesses within the region to offer increased access to state contracts and subcontracts. With these certifications, businesses have access to set-aside and preferred price contracts, as well as greater overall business opportunities. To apply, click on the links below.
Local and Regional Programs
New York & New Jersey Minority Supplier Development Council DBE Programs
The New York & New Jersey Minority Supplier Development Council (NYNJMSDC) offers certifications for businesses that are at least 51% owned and operated by Hispanic, Native-American, Black, or Asian American citizens. This certification allows business owners to access resources, education, increased business opportunities, and exclusive benefits offered to NYNJMSDC members. To apply, click on the link below.
Women’s Business Enterprise Council WBE Program
The Women’s Business Enterprise Council (WBEC) certifies women-owned businesses in Southern New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Delaware. 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 online, click on the link below.
Women Presidents’ Educational Organization WBE Program
The Women Presidents’ Educational Organization (WPEO) certifies women-owned businesses throughout Northern New Jersey, Southern Connecticut, and New York. Like the WBEC, the WPEO is an affiliate of the WBENC and offers access to educational and supportive resources to all certified members. To qualify, businesses must be at least 51% owned and operated by a woman who is a U.S. citizen. To apply, click on the link below.