DBE Support Services Program
The Disadvantaged Business Enterprise Supportive Services (DBE/SS) Program serves as a vital complement to the broader Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) Program, with statutory support enabling its implementation by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA). Under the leadership of the Business Development Office (BDO), the DBE/SS program is dedicated to fostering the growth and sustainability of minority-, women-, and disadvantaged-owned businesses.
Program Goals:
- Enhance Participation: Provide targeted training, technical assistance, and resources to increase DBE firms' involvement in federally-assisted highway projects.
- Promote Development: Equip firms with skills and tools to evolve into viable, independent businesses capable of competing effectively in the open market.
- Ensure Sustainability: Support the eventual self-sufficiency of DBE firms, enabling them to secure and execute contracts without reliance on DBE-specific support.
Key Features:
- Skill Development: Workshops, mentorships, and training programs to bolster business acumen and operational capacity.
- Resource Identification: Guidance in accessing financial, technical, and operational resources critical for growth.
- Capacity Building: Tailored strategies to help DBE firms compete effectively for prime and subcontractor opportunities.
The program underscores the commitment to leveling the playing field, ensuring DBE firms can thrive in a competitive market while contributing to the diversity and inclusivity of federally-assisted infrastructure projects.
Authority:
- 23 USC 140 (c) Reimbursement
- 23 CFR 230 Subpart B Supportive Services for Minority, Disadvantaged, and Women Business Enterprises
- 49 CFR Part 26, Appendix C DBE Business Development Program Guidelines
50% DBE Reimbursement Program:
The 50% DBE Reimbursement Program is designed to empower and support DBE firms in fostering the growth of their businesses and enhancing competitiveness in the marketplace. This initiative approves reimbursement of 50% of the costs incurred for work-related expenses. The financial assistance is targeted at aiding DBEs in covering expenses associated with bidding or completing work on current projects.
Who qualifies? DBE firms (including employees, owners, or on-site representatives) actively bidding on DOT Federal Highway Administration (FWHA) funded projects or registered on the Bidders Registration are eligible. Only certified DBEs with Alaska as their home base certification can participate in the 50% Reimbursement Program. DBEs certified in states other than Alaska are not eligible, though they can avail of other services provided by the DBE program.
Reimbursement Period for FFY2025: The reimbursement period spans from October 1, 2024, to September 30, 2025. Reimbursement submissions after the Federal Fiscal Year period closure (unless otherwise approved) will not be accepted.
Reimbursement Limit: The maximum reimbursement per qualifying DBE firm per benefit year is $2,500.00. An additional $2,500.00 may be submitted at the end of the Federal Fiscal Year (September 1-30) if funds are available, but this is not guaranteed.
Attachments:
Training Opportunities on 50% DBE Reimbursement Form & Instructions in FFY2025:
Govology Webinars:
Alaska APEX Accelerators has a partnership with Govology to offer their clients access to free virtual training sessions covering a range of topics, including Government Contracting, marketing strategies, regulatory compliance, cybersecurity, proposal crafting, and more!
- Gain expertise in government contracting for both novice and experienced contractors.
- Acquire essential skills in locating, bidding, securing, and effectively executing government contracts.
- Unlock access to valuable insights and resources to excel in the competitive realm of government contracts.
To get access to these free webinars email Jody King, Contract Specialist II at jlking8@alaska.edu or call at 907-786-7270.
Creating Capability Statement:
Alaska APEX Accelerator (formerly known as PTAC) have a free 1 hour training on how to "Create Capability Statement." Utilize this free tool to learn how to market your business, learn what a capability statement is, what it accomplishes and more.
Training Name: Creating Capability Statement
By: Alaska APEX Accelerator
Link: See training information here.
Your business Capability Statement is a crucial tool in your marketing toolbox. It is a key document for marketing to government agencies; especially since can you can now attach your Capability Statement to your Dynamic Small Business profile! This webinar is designed to help you review your existing capability statement or to give you the directions needed to create one from scratch.
This webinar will discuss:
- What is a capability statement, and why do you need one?
- What is a capability statement supposed to accomplish?
- What information should it convey?
- What does a capability statement look like? Are there any mistakes to avoid?
Loan Programs Available for DBEs:
| Program | Provided By | Purpose | Eligibility |
| Short Term Lending Program (STLP) | US DOT Office of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization (OSDBU) | Provide revolving lines of credit to finance accounts receivable arising from transportation-related contracts. | Provide financial services to disadvantaged and woman-owned enterprises |
| Micro Loan Program | State of Alaska, Division of Investments | To promote economic development in Alaska by helping small businesses access needed capital. | Loans may be made for working capital, equipment, construction or other commercial purposes for a business located in Alaska.
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| Microloans | U.S. Small Business Administration | Microloans can be used for a variety of purposes that help small businesses expand. Use them when you need less than $50,000 to rebuild, re-open, repair, enhance, or improve your small business. | Microloans are available through certain nonprofit, community-based organizations that are experienced in lending and business management assistance. Individual requirements will vary. |
| 504 Loan Program | U.S. Small Business Administration | The 504 Loan Program provides long-term, fixed rate financing for major fixed assets that promote business growth and job creation. | Operate as a for-profit company in the United States or its possessions.
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| 7 (a) Loans | U.S. Small Business Administration |
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Some businesses may not qualify for a 7(a) loan. Read more about Terms, conditions, and eligibility. |
U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) |
SBA guarantees bid, performance, payment, and ancillary surety bonds issued by certain surety companies. |
1. Be a small business. |
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| 2:1 Partnership Microloan Program | Kenai Peninsula Economic Development District, Inc. | Support economic development purposes including working capital, inventory acquisition, machinery, equipment, construction, installation and renovation of commercial and industrial development that intends to increase permanent jobs. | See website for more information. |
| Mini Grant Funding Support Program | Alaska Small Business Development Center (SBDC) | Provides up to $5,000 to help cover costs associated with legal, accounting, or financial services needed to apply for jurisdictional funding. | Open to Alaska SBDC clients with ten or fewer employees or small businesses that are at least 51% owned or controlled by:
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| SBA approved Alaska Microlender | Spruce Root, Inc. | This program offers small business owners across the state up to $50,000, providing enhanced access to capital and resources to support the growth of their ventures. | The loans can be used for working capital, inventory, equipment, or other business-related expenses. |
Small Business & Financial Resources:
- U.S. Small Business Administration – Alaska District Office
- U.S. DOT Northwest Region SBTRC
- Alaska Small Business Development Center (SBDC)
- Alaska APEX Accelerator
- Business Impact NW – Alaska
- UAF Alaska Tribal Technical Assistance Program
- State of Alaska DOT&PF, Procurement & Contracting Information
Quarterly Trainings:
Each quarter, the Alaska DOT&PF Civil Rights BDO Office will offer DBE and ACDBE firms valuable training opportunities to deepen their understanding of various topics. These sessions will be recorded and made available on the website for convenient access.
2024
Quarter 3: What Does Your Website Say About You?
Alaska APEX Accelerator & Alaska DOT&PF, Civil Rights Office
2025
Quarter 2 Training: Buy America vs. Buy American Passcode: Ls.PVt3r
Alaska APEX Accelerator & Alaska DOT&PF, Civil Rights Office
Quarter 3 Training: Topic TBD
Thursday, April 24, 2025, at 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM.
Register here!
Quarter 4 Training: Topic TBD
Thursday, August 7, 2025, at 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM.
Register here!
Quarter 4 Training: Topic TBD
Thursday, September 25, 2025 at 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM.
Register here!
Stay Informed of Upcoming Events:
Stay up to date with events and training opportunities for eligible DBEs by visiting the Events section of the CRO website. We regularly update this section with a variety of events relevant to DBEs, including trainings, stakeholder gatherings, and both in-person and virtual opportunities. From state-sponsored events to key industry sessions, there's always something to support DBE growth and engagement. Be sure to check back frequently for the latest updates and upcoming events!
DBE Participation Survey:
The Civil Rights Office wants to hear from DBEs on their participation in the program! We're dedicated to empowering DBE firms to thrive and compete successfully in federally funded highway projects. This is your chance to share valuable feedback to shape the future of our programs and services. Your insights will help us enhance training, resources, and support designed specifically for your success. Take part in building a stronger, more supportive community for DBE firms. Share your thoughts through the DBE Participation Survey!
File a Complaint:
This form is intended for individuals or representatives of entities who believe the Alaska Department of Transportation & Public Facilities (Alaska DOT&PF), as a recipient of Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) assistance, has not fulfilled its obligations under the requirements of 49 CFR Part 26. Submitting this form initiates the Alaska DOT&PF Civil Rights Office (CRO) DBE Program Complaint process, which addresses allegations of noncompliance with responsibilities outlined in 49 CFR Part 26, including procedural deficiencies, compliance determinations, or other activities believed to violate these federal regulations. Complaints must be submitted in writing within 180 days of the alleged violation, and assistance is available for individuals who need help completing the form, including those with disabilities or Limited English Proficiency (LEP). Translation and interpretation services will be provided at no cost.
