What does SBE stand for?
Small Business Enterprise.
What are the program’s goals?
Expanding business opportunities for small businesses in accordance with Small Business Administration size standards on federally-funded transportation projects.
How would SBE certification help my business?
SBE certification helps you compete for contracts, both as a Subcontractor or as a Prime Contractor on federally funded transportation projects in the District of Columbia projects in the entire Greater Washington, DC area. Federal law guarantees SBEs prompt payment of undisputed invoices. Your firm can also receive supportive services for free or at reduced cost.
Does my business need SBE certification to bid on federally funded highway projects?
Yes. Your business is seeking to bid on federal-funded transportation projects, and the District Department of Transportation seek to meet federal obligations on such projects; SBE certification levels the playing field and helps small businesses compete against other small, equally-qualified bidders.
Does my business qualify?
Your firm must be an independent business owned, for-profit entity. Individual owners must have a personal net worth not exceeding $1,320,000 (excluding ownership interest in the firm, retirement fund assets, and equity value of primary residence). The firm's average gross receipts over the last three years must not exceed $23.98 million. There are different size limits for various categories of businesses.
How do we apply for SBE status?
Your firm can apply for SBE Certification using the Online Application form. For more information, contact Andrea Jackson, EEO Specialist/DBE/SBE Programs
at 202-671-2252, or by email [email protected]
What are NAICS Codes?
NAICS codes are the North American Industry Classification System (a US Government standard) which are used to identify industries for the purposes of
SBE certification.. The SBE Program follows SBA regulations in establishing small business size limits for each industry.
We have some questions about our application. Who can help?
For assistance contact Ms. Andrea Jackson, 202-671-2252.
Where do we submit our application and required documents?
You will be able to apply for SBE certification online. If you do not have a computer, you can mail your completed application and attached copies of the required documents to:
Attention: Andrea Jackson
Civil Rights Program
District Department of Transportation
55 M Street, SE
Washington, DC 20003
If you are delivering the application packet by courier or in person, our office hours are Monday to Friday, 8:30 am to 5 pm.
How long does certification take?
If you submit your application and supporting documents online for processing, then your application is held in 'Pending Review' status till review is completed.
Once the review is complete, the application could be Accepted, Denied or Returned back to the applicant. System will send an email to the user as there is change in the status.
Review process may take up to 30 days. If your application is missing information or required documents, the process will take longer.
How long are certifications valid?
Certified companies are re-evaluated every three years, and must submit an annual affidavit.
Is the SBE certification needed to do business with the DC Government?
No. The Office of Contracting and Procurement handles direct purchasing for District Government. For information to assist eligible businesses, information may be found at The Department of Small and Local Business Development (DSLBD) or call (202) 727-3900.
Our organization is a nonprofit corporation. May we apply for SBE certification?
No. Applicants must qualify as 'for-profit' small businesses as defined by the US Small Business Administration (SBA).
What Supportive Services may SBE's receive?
SBE firms are listed in a database used by many prime contractors, and may take advantage of supportive services including (but not limited to):
a) updates on procurement opportunities and training activities;
b) consulting services from experts in finance, accounting, marketing and other business fields;
c) assistance in developing a business plan and identifying projects for bid, cost analysis, competitive bidding, and marketing strategies;
d) referral services to help identify sources of short or long term financing.
Where can registered SBEs get supportive services?
The address and phone number for DBE supportive services are the following:
Business Opportunity and Workforce Development Center (BOWDC)
District Department of Transportation, Office of Civil Rights
55 M Street, SE
Washington, DC 20020
Telephone: (202) 645-8620
If your business is located outside of the District, we encourage you to seek supportive services from your home state transportation agency.
If my business is certified as a DBE or CBE by the DC Department of Small and Local Business Development (DSLBD), then are we already certified for DDOT's SBE program?
If your firm is certified as a DBE or CBE, your firm’s listing will be “grandfathered” into the SBE program, and there is no need for additional certification processes.
We have 8a certification from SBA. Does that mean I’m already certified for your program?
If you obtained 8a certification within the last 3 years, you may use your SBA application to apply for DDOT SBE status. DDOT may request some additional information.
