Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE)
A disadvantaged business enterprise (DBE) means a for-profit small business concern —
- That is at least 51 percent owned by one or more individuals who are both socially and economically disadvantaged or, in the case of a corporation, in which 51 percent of the stock is owned by one or more such individuals; and
- Whose management and daily business operations are controlled by one or more of the socially and economically disadvantaged individuals who own it.
The primary remedial goal and objective of the DBE program is to level the playing field by providing DBEs a fair opportunity to compete for federally-funded transportation contracts.
ODOT's DBE Goals
- 15.7% of federally-funded highway construction and design contracts (e.g. major highway reconstruction, geotechnical design, environmental consulting) in Federal Fiscal Years 23, 24 and 25.
- 7.87% of federally-funded transit contracts in Federal Fiscal Years 20, 21 and 22.
Contact
Deborah M. Green, Administrator / DBE Liaison Officer
General Contact: 614-466-3957
Certification Section: 614-466-2878
DBE Complaint Hotline: 888-778-4171
Featured DBE Resources
DBE Certification and Background Information
Learn more about DBE eligibility, ODOT's commitments, and certification.
DBE Goal Methodology
View 2023-2025 goal methodology for DBE contracts.
DBE and EDGE Forms and Resources
Forms and resources for bidders, contractors, and consultants doing business with DBE and EDGE firms.
DBE Supportive Services
Learn more about DBE Supportive Services.
Learn More
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DBE/EDGE Capability Statements
See capability statements showcasing DBE- and EDGE-certified firms that have chosen to participate.
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DBE Mentor/Protégé Program
A program to foster a more competitive environment for ODOT projects by building a broader base of DBEs able to perform work on highway construction projects.
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Ohio Unified Certification Program (UCP)
For certification resources, see the Ohio Unified Certification Program page.
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DBE Program Plan
Read ODOT's full Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) Program plan here.
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Ohio Unified DBE Directory
See a list of DBE and ACDBE-certified firms.
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Outreach
Creates opportunities for communication and networking, such as the Civil Rights Transportation Symposium.
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Civil Rights Compliance
Ensuring that ODOT is not only complying with all civil rights legislation, but encouraging, promoting and exceeding civil rights compliance expectations.