Frequently Asked Questions

Federally funded business opportunities have separate certification requirements for disadvantage business enterprises (DBEs). If you wish to apply for DBE status, please contact the Massachusetts Unified Certification Program to request information on the DBE certification process.

Massachusetts Unified Certification Program (DBE Certification)
State Transportation Building
10 Park Plaza, Suite 2600-B
Boston, MA 02116
Phone: 857-368-8656
https://www.mass.gov/unified-certification-program-ucp 

While certification does not guarantee that an ACDBE, WBE, MBE, or DBE will win a contract or opportunity, it does enhance its exposure to prime contractors and the business community. To be successful in winning business, a firm must market itself as any business would. 

The Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs administers and enforces Executive Order 11246, which prohibits contractors and subcontractors who do over $10,000 in government business in one year from discriminating in employment decisions on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, or national origin.

The Executive Order also requires government contractors to take affirmative action to insure that equal opportunity is provided in all aspects of their employment.

The utilization of minorities and women shall be, at a minimum, that currently in use by the federal government. This requirement stated at 41 C.F.R. parts 60-4 is 6.9% utilization of women and 10% utilization of minorities, as a percent of work hours.