DBE Program

Metra has established a Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) Program in accordance with regulations of the U.S. Department of Transportation (US DOT),49 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Part 26. Metra has received federal financial assistance from the Department of Transportation and as a condition of receiving this assistance, has signed an assurance that it will comply with 49 CFR Part 26.

What is a Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE)?

A DBE is a for-profit small business concern that is:

  1. At least 51 percent owned by one or more individuals who are both socially and economically disadvantaged.  In the case of a corporation, in which 51 percent of the stock is owned by one or more such individuals; and
  2. Whose management and daily business operations are controlled by one or more of the socially and economically disadvantaged individuals who own the business.

Objectives of the DBE Program

  1. Encourage qualified firms to become DBE certified
  2. Provide access to Metra’s procurement opportunities to small and diverse businesses
  3. Assist in the growth and development of minority and women-owned firms by building relationships with:
    • Vendor communities
    • Interest groups
    • Government agencies
  4. Provide outreach opportunities (vendor fairs, workshops and training)
  5. Contract compliance and monitoring