The Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) and Airport Concessions Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (ACDBE) programs are required for organizations receiving federal funding for transportation projects. Companies wishing to operate an airport concession should seek ACDBE certification. Service providers and suppliers may also obtain ACDBE certification for participation on concessions contracts. All other companies should seek DBE certification.

GOAA is a certifying member of the Florida Unified Certification Program (UCP). To be certified for the DBE and ACDBE program(s), a qualifying organization must meet the following requirements:

1. Be organized as a for-profit small business whose annual gross revenues or number of employees do not exceed the limits applicable to the type of business as determined by the U.S. Small Business Administration Table of Small Business Size Standards.

2. Be at least 51% owned by one or more socially and economically disadvantaged individuals, or in the case of a corporation, at least 51% of the stock must be owned by such individuals.

A. Under federal regulations, individuals whose eligibility is relied upon for certification must demonstrate that they are socially and economically disadvantaged based on an individualized determination supported by documentation. This determination must include a personal narrative describing economic hardship, systemic barriers, and denied opportunities that impeded the owner's progress or success in education, employment, or business, including obtaining financing on terms available to similarly situated persons who did not face barriers in obtaining terms.

B. Individuals whose socially and economically disadvantaged status is relied upon for DBE certification must show that their personal net worth does not exceed $2.047 million. For purposes of establishing net worth, the following items are excluded:

• i. The equity in the individual’s primary residence;
• ii. The equity in the business which is applying for DBE status.
• iii. All assets in qualified retirement accounts.

C. Management and daily business operations must be controlled by one or more of the socially and economically disadvantaged individuals who own the business.

Certification is required for participation in this program. Applicants are required to use GOAA’s online Small Business B2G Certification Portal to submit applications and related documentation.