Disadvantaged Business Enterprise Program (DBE Program)

The DBE Program is required by Congress as a condition of receiving federal funds and is also provided policy and direction by the Transportation Commission. It provides assistance to minorities, women and other socially and economically disadvantaged individuals to enter the highway, construction and design industries. TMCC effectively and efficiently helps firms seeking DBE certification with the application process in order to do business with prime contractors and consultants.

Benefits of Becoming DBE Certified:

  1. Participation counts toward project DBE/UDBE goals
  2. Special Mailings
  3. Special Training and Seminars
  4. Tuition Reimbursement
  5. Supportive Services

Qualifications

Socially and economically disadvantaged individuals are those who are (in addition to being economically disadvantaged) citizens (or lawfully admitted permanent residents) of the United States who are found to be socially and economically disadvantaged on a case-by-case basis.Individuals in the following groups, of which are refutably presumed to be socially and economically disadvantaged:

  • Black Americans
  • Hispanic Americans
  • Asian-Pacific Americans & Subcontinent Asian Americans
  • Native Americans
  • Women
  • Any additional groups whose members are designated as socially and economically disadvantaged by the SBA, at such time as the SBA designation becomes effective.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) for TMCC's DBE Certification Programs Office
  1. What is a Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE)?
  2. What is the difference between a UDBE and a DBE?
  3. What are the objectives of the DBE Program?
  4. Who qualifies to be a Disadvantaged Business Enterprise?
  5. What are the benefits of being a certified DBE?
  6. How can I apply for DBE certification?

1) What is a Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE)?

A Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) is a for-profit small business concern that is:
(1) at least 51% owned by one or more individuals who are both socially and economically disadvantaged; and
(2) whose management and daily business operations are controlled by one or more of the socially and economically disadvantaged individuals who own it.

2) What is the difference between a UDBE and a DBE?

An Underutilized Disadvantaged Business Enterprise or UDBE is a firm that meets the definition of DBE above (i.e., a certified DBE) and is also eligible to meet a TDOT UDBE contract goal. UDBE groups are identified by the most recent disparity study and monthly reports to the Transportation Committee based on their utilization index. As of the most recent disparity study conducted by TDOT, all DBE groups were found to be “underutilized.” Therefore all DBEs on TDOT’s DBE Directory are currently UDBEs as well.

3) What are the objectives of the DBE Program?

The objectives of the DBE Program are to:

  • Create a level playing field on which DBEs can compete fairly for contracts
  • Ensure that the Department's DBE program is narrowly tailored
  • Ensure that only firms that fully meet the eligibility standards are permitted to participate as DBEs
  • Help remove barriers to participation of DBEs in contracting
  • Assist in the development of firms that can compete successfully in the marketplace outside the DBE Program

5) What are the benefits of being a certified DBE?

The following are some of the benefits of being a certified DBE:

  • DBE contracts and subcontract amounts may count toward project DBE/UDBE goals.
  • DBEs may participate in a variety of supportive services such as training and technical assistance.
  • DBEs receive numerous special mailings containing information on contracting and other opportunities.
  • TMCC's DBE, MBE & WBE Directory is used by many firms to locate subcontractors for their projects.

6) How can I apply for DBE certification?

For assistance with the DBE certification application for the Governor’s Office of Diversity Business Enterprise (Go-DBE) contact: Derek Henry – Certification Manager (423) 265-0021 email: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it and make an appointment today!

Resources Available for Small, Minority and Women-Owned Businesses

Link to State DEB Information http://www.state.tn.us/ecd/rg_ch7.htm
Link to Department of Transportation DBE Information http://osdbu.dot.gov/DBEProgram/index.cfm