Owners of newly certified Disadvantaged Business Enterprises attended an orientation on Oct. 29, 2024, to learn about opportunities to compete for projects and grow their business. The event was held in person and gave business owners the opportunity to meet with representatives from the Metropolitan Airports Commission, City of Minneapolis, Association of Women Contractors, DRB Consulting/Pathways to Success, and the Minnesota Department of Transportation. Presenters included liaisons from MnDOT offices of Civil Rights and Consultant Services, the Department of Administration and APEX Accelerator. The day was filled with networking and informative presentations.

Presenters explained the many opportunities for submitting work bids and proposals and for business training and support. Each program has different requirements, depending on the funding sources. All programs are designed to increase the participation of people who have been historically underrepresented in state contracts and procurements.

Presenters offered tips for success such as knowing prevailing wages before bidding or proposing and making sure your NAICS codes are accurately listed in the DBE directory. Attendees also learned about newly updated DBE rules for special provisions and DBE participation credit on contracts.

MnDOT’s Pathways to Success program, offered in collaboration with DRB Consulting, was featured. Pathways to Success is one of several opportunities for free business training and mentoring for certified DBEs.