Disadvantaged Business Enterprise Program
The Birmingham Jefferson County Transit Authority (BJCTA) is interested in firms that demonstrate a commitment to Equal Employment Opportunity and encourages firms to employ a work force that reflects the region’s diversity and to adhere to non-discrimination provisions. As a federal Grantee, BJCTA must have a Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) Policy, annual DBE Goals, and a Civil Rights /Title VI Policy in place.
Objectives / Policy Statements
The intent of the DBE Program is to eliminate barriers for women and minorities participating in contracting opportunities. The program is not a quota or set aside program; it is goal-based requiring good faith efforts to meet goals.
The DBE Program, governed by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT), 49 CFR Part 26 & 23, is applicable to projects that are funded with federal dollars received through grants from the FAA, FHWA, and FTA. BJCTA adheres to the DBE guidelines for federally and non-federally funded projects.
To safeguard DBEs equal opportunity to receive and participate in DOT-assisted contracts, BJCTA has the following policies in place:
- Ensure nondiscrimination in the award and administration of DOT-assisted contracts.
- Create a level playing field on which DBEs can compete fairly for DOT-assisted contracts.
- Help remove barriers to the participation of DBEs in DOT-assisted contracts.
- Ensure the DBE Program is narrowly tailored in accordance with applicable law.
- Ensure only firms that fully meet 49 CFR Part 26 eligibility standards are permitted to participate as DBEs.
- Assist the development of firms that can compete successfully in the marketplace outside the DBE Program.
BJCTA is interested in firms that demonstrate a commitment to Equal Employment Opportunity and employ a work force that reflects the region’s diversity and adheres to non-discrimination provisions. Small, women or minority-owned DBE firms are encouraged to submit bids or proposals and afford all potential business partners and equal, non-discriminatory opportunity to compete for business as joint venture partners or subcontractors. We encourage certified suppliers to join us in partnering with the DBE Program initiatives.
What Defines a Disadvantaged Business Entity?
- Existing small business as defined by Small Business Administration standards.
- 51% of the business is owned and controlled by one or more minority individuals.
- Economically disadvantaged individual with a personal net worth not exceeding $2.047 million and business gross less than $30.72 million.
- Socially disadvantaged individual.
- African American, Female, Native American, Asian-Pacific, and other minority classifications
Certifying Agencies in Alabama
