DISADVANTAGED BUSINESS RESOURCES

A Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) is a small business that is at least 51% owned, operated, and controlled by individuals who are socially and economically disadvantaged. These businesses may face challenges due to systemic barriers, including limited access to capital, networks, and business opportunities. DBE status offers access to specific programs and support designed to level the playing field in government contracting.

 

Becoming a certified DBE can significantly enhance your business’s opportunities in public procurement. Whether you’re looking to compete for government contracts or partner with larger firms, certification is a vital tool to ensure equal access to procurement opportunities. 

 

 

Types of DBEs

  • Women-Owned Businesses (WBE): Businesses where at least 51% of the ownership is held by women.

  • Minority-Owned Businesses (MBE): Businesses where at least 51% of the ownership is held by individuals from minority groups, including African Americans, Hispanics, Asian Americans, and Native Americans.

  • Veteran-Owned Businesses (VOB): Businesses where the majority ownership is held by veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces.

  • Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Businesses (SDVOB): A subset of veteran-owned businesses where the owner has a service-connected disability.

  • LGBTQ-Owned Businesses: Businesses owned by individuals identifying as part of the LGBTQ+ community, depending on specific certifications.

 

Certification Programs in Florida

Certification is an essential step for DBEs looking to access special contracting opportunities. Several certification programs are available to DBEs in Florida, including:

 

  • Florida’s Office of Supplier Diversity (OSD): This state program offers certification for women, minority, and veteran-owned businesses. Being certified by OSD opens access to procurement opportunities with state agencies, municipalities, and other governmental entities.

  • U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) 8(a) Program: A federal program designed to help small, disadvantaged businesses compete in the marketplace. The SBA 8(a) certification can provide access to set-aside contracts with the federal government.

  • Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) Certification: Offered through organizations like the Florida State Minority Supplier Development Council (FSMSDC), this certification is recognized by public and private entities nationwide and gives access to corporate and government contracting opportunities.

 

How to Get Certified

To become certified as a DBE in Florida, follow these general steps:

 

  1. Determine Eligibility: Ensure that your business meets the ownership and control requirements for DBE status.

  2. Complete the Application: Submit an application to the appropriate certifying body (e.g., OSD, SBA, FSMSDC).

  3. Provide Documentation: Provide financial records, business tax returns, personal tax returns, and proof of ownership and control.

  4. Review Process: After submitting your application and documentation, there will be a review period where the certifying agency verifies your eligibility.

  5. Maintain Certification: Once certified, ensure you comply with annual reporting requirements to maintain your status.

 

Benefits of Certification

  • Access to Set-Aside Programs: Certification allows DBEs to participate in government set-aside programs, which reserve certain contracts specifically for certified businesses.

  • Increased Opportunities: Certification can provide access to a wider array of contracts with federal, state, and local governments, as well as private sector opportunities that value diversity in their supply chains.

  • Networking: Certification connects DBEs to networking events, workshops, and partnerships with larger firms seeking to work with small, diverse businesses.

  • Technical Assistance: Many government agencies provide DBEs with business development resources, training, and guidance to enhance competitiveness in bidding for government contracts. 

 

Set-Aside Programs and Targeted Opportunities

Florida has specific set-aside programs designed to ensure that DBEs have equal access to government contracting opportunities. These programs allocate a percentage of contracts to certified DBEs in sectors like construction, professional services, and goods supply. Additionally, targeted opportunities are available for small businesses in areas such as infrastructure, IT services, and public works projects.

 

 

Business Development Resources

Several resources are available to help DBEs build capacity, access financing, and navigate the competitive landscape:

 

  • Florida Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs): SBDCs provide free business consulting services, training, and resources for small businesses, including DBEs, to improve their competitiveness.

  • Florida Procurement Technical Assistance Centers (PTACs): These centers assist businesses in navigating the procurement process, including helping DBEs respond to RFPs (Requests for Proposals) and improve their government contracting capabilities.

  • Local Chambers of Commerce: Local chambers, including those focused on minority or women-owned businesses, offer networking events and business development services.

 

Additional Information for DBEs

  • Diversity in Procurement: Florida’s commitment to diversity in procurement is a key factor in promoting economic growth. Certified DBEs not only have access to governmental contracts but can also leverage their status for strategic partnerships with prime contractors.

  • Resources for Government Contracting: Businesses can access a variety of online resources to help navigate government contracting processes, including Florida’s Division of Purchasing and the U.S. Department of Transportation’s DBE program.