Disadvantaged Business Enterprises

Disadvantaged Business Enterprises (DBEs) are small businesses that are at a disadvantage in the marketplace due to social and economic factors, often owned by women, minorities, or individuals in low-income communities. The DBE program, initiated by the U.S. Department of Transportation, aims to promote fair competition by ensuring that these businesses have opportunities to participate in government contracts, especially in transportation-related projects. By providing assistance and support, the program helps to improve the economic viability of these enterprises and promote diversity in business ownership, ultimately fostering a more inclusive economy.