MORPC Disadvantaged Business Enterprise Program
What is the purpose of the Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) Program?
- To ensure nondiscrimination in the award and administration of U.S. Department of Transportation-assisted contracts.
- To meet U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) requirements contained in 49 CFR 26.
- See the DBE Program Policy Statement (signed by MORPC's Executive Director).
How does MORPC operate its DBE Program?
- Requiring prime contractors to expend at least 12 percent of the funds (the current goal) they receive from MORPC on DBE subcontractors.
- Updating DBE goal when MORPC expects to contract out work exceeding $250,000 of Federal Transit Administration or Federal Highway Administration funds. See MORPC DBE program for the 2002 update.
Who qualifies for the DBE Program?
- Businesses certified as DBEs by a DOT-authorized certification agency such as the Ohio Department of Transportation, the Central Ohio Transit Authority, and the Columbus Regional Airport Authority.
- Businesses owned by members of socially and economically disadvantaged groups. These groups include but are not limited to African-Americans, Hispanics, other minority groups and women.
- Businesses owned by U.S. Citizens or permanent residents who have an individual net worth of less than $750,000.
- Businesses which meet size standards of the U.S. Small Business Administration.
How can I learn more about the DBE Program?
Contact
Ethan Ortman - Principal Planner - 614.233.4153