State Certifications

State Certification Programs:

Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE)
On February 28, 2011 the DOT released its final ruling and adjusted the Personal Net Worth (PNW) of the DBE Program from $750,000 to $1.32 Million making it the first adjustment since 1989. The final ruling will also hold states and local agencies more accountable for including disadvantaged businesses in their transportation plans.

Other provisions in this rulemaking will also add provisions to ensure that prime contractors fulfill commitments to use DBE subcontractors. State and local agencies will be required to monitor each contract to make sure prime contractors are fulfilling their obligations and do not dismiss DBE subcontractors without good cause.

Another major change under the rulemaking will reduce burdens on small businesses seeking DBE certification in more than one state. As a result, all states will be required to accept DBE certifications obtained in other states, unless the state finds good cause not to accept it. The rule establishes a process for resolving issues with respect to eligibility raised by states concerning out-of-state firms.

The DOT DBE Certification Program is aimed at helping economically and socially disadvantaged businesses take advantage of opportunities to participate in federally funded highway, transit and airport projects. The Department has established a race neutral goal of 8.18% for the utilization of DBE's on all contracts.

FDOT Specialty Code Sheet

Minority and Women Business Enterprise (M/WBE)
MWBE certification is Florida's premier stamp of approval for minority, women and service-disabled veterans business enterprises. It is widely accepted across the State of Florida in the private sector as well as cities, counties, school districts, hospitals, water management districts and other quasi governmental entities.

Minimum eligibility requirements for certification include:

Must be independently owned and operated;
51% owned, managed and controlled by: African-American, Hispanic-American, Asian-American, Native-American, American Woman or Service-Disabled Veteran (minimum 10% disability);
Must be a U.S. Citizen;
Must be engaged in commercial transactions;
Must operate a business in Florida.

Call us for a free consultation to see if you qualify for any of the State Certification Programs referenced above.

Minority and Women Business Enterprise (M/WBE)