DBE Certifications in Pennsylvania
Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) certifications are awarded to businesses throughout Pennsylvania that are at least 51% owned and operated by ‘disadvantaged’ members of the population. Individuals who are minorities, women, or socially and economically impaired qualify as ‘disadvantaged’ for these certifications. Businesses that fit a specific size standard can also qualify for a DBE certification. By certifying, business owners receive increased business opportunities and access to government and public contracts and subcontracts. Pennsylvania offers a wide variety of statewide, local, and regional programs for qualifying businesses, giving each business the best chance to succeed in local and state economies.
Statewide Certification Programs
Pennsylvania Unified Certification Program (PAUCP)
The Pennsylvania Unified Certification Program (PAUCP) operates as a “one-stop shop” for businesses looking to receive a DBE certification. With this certification, businesses can compete for state and federal Department of Transportation (DOT) contracts and projects. Benefits include greater visibility for large contracts, access to consulting and training resources offered by the PAUCP, and certification recognition by many Business Enterprise programs through the state. To qualify, businesses must be for-profit, at least 51% owned by a qualifying U.S. citizen, and meet financial requirements. To apply, complete this application and Personal Net Worth Statement and submit them to any of these agencies:
- Allegheny County Department Of Minority, Women, And Disadvantaged Business Enterprise
- City Of Philadelphia – Office Of Business Diversity
- PA Department Of Transportation (PENNDOT) Bureau Of Equal Opportunity
- Port Authority Of Allegheny County Diverse And Disadvantaged Business Enterprises
- Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) DBE Program Office
Local and Regional Programs
Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) SBE Programs
The Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) offers a Small Business Enterprise (SBE) certification in addition to its PAUCP DBE certification. Businesses that meet Small Business Administration (SBA) size standards, are for-profit, at least 51% owned and operated by a disadvantaged individual, and meet financial requirements may be eligible. To apply, click on the link below.
Pittsburgh International Airport DBE Programs
The Pittsburgh International Airport (PIT) offers a DBE and Airport Concession Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (ACDBE) certification. Businesses that qualify for these certifications gain access to business opportunities with PIT and the Allegheny County Airport (AGC), which also accepts these certifications. To apply, click on the links below.
- DBE (Disadvantaged Business Enterprise)
- ACDBE (Airport Concession Disadvantaged Business Enterprise)
Eastern Minority Supplier Development Council MBE Programs
Businesses owned by minorities in Pennsylvania 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 online, click on the link below.
Women’s Business Enterprise Council WBE Programs
The Women’s Business Enterprise Council (WBEC) 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 online, click on the link below.