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 November and December 2025
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The Certification Office of Business Inclusion and Diversity (COBID) has begun the re-certification process for DBE and ACDBE firms, aligning with federal expectations related to the Interim Final Rule announced on Oct. 3, 2025. COBID is evaluating the new documentation from November 17 to December 31.
The Interim Final Rule has removed the presumption of social and economic disadvantage based on race and/or gender. The new requirements of DBE and ACDBE certification include:
- A personal narrative describing the business owner’s individual experience of disadvantage
- An expanded review of Personal Net Worth (PNW) and personal tax documentation to confirm eligibility
Visit the COBID website for guidance and resources to help you write your personal narrative, as well as an FAQ about DBE and ACDBE re-certification.
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Community Partners Welcome!
We invite you to participate in the committees and workgroups addressing the recommendations from the 2023 State of Oregon Disparity Study. Your expertise and insights can help drive meaningful change in Oregon’s procurement and economic equity strategies!
We are seeking individuals who have experience bidding on government work, utilizing subcontractors, or working in procurement, policy, business equity, or economic development. We value all perspectives from all industries that are passionate about advancing equitable business opportunities in Oregon.
Available Opportunities:
January 2026
- Subgroup 7: Thresholds and Unbundling
- Subgroup 8: Bid Posting Times
- Subgroup 9: Financial Assistance
Use our online form or scan the QR code below to get more information and sign up!
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"Hey, Jenine! I am beginning to do holiday shopping and want to support Oregon small businesses this season. Where can I find information on finding small businesses?"
Heart of the Holidays: Giving with Purpose, Oregon Style!
As the air turns crisp, pumpkin scent fills the air and peppermint mochas make their annual comeback, it's time to talk about something that warms the heart even more than fuzzy socks: holiday shopping that gives back.
Why Shop COBID?
The Certification Office for Business Inclusion and Diversity (COBID) helps level the playing field for businesses owned by minorities, women, service-disabled veterans and emerging entrepreneurs. When you shop COBID-certified, you’re not just buying a gift—you’re helping build a more inclusive Oregon economy. That’s a win-win wrapped in a bow! Learn more about COBID certification.
How to Find COBID-Certified Businesses
Wrap It Up with Heart
Whether you’re gifting a cozy wool cap from a Native-owned brand or a handmade cutting board from a veteran artisan, your purchase can help build stronger communities. This year let’s shop small, local and with COBID-certified heart.
Happy Holidays from the Office of Procurement Equity!
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'Veteran Business Enterprise'
A Veteran Business Enterprise (VBE) is a business that is at least 51% owned, controlled, and managed by one or US military veterans who is a US citizen or lawfully admitted, permanent resident.
In Oregon, this designation is offered through the Certification Office for Business Inclusion and Diversity (COBID) and is open to all veterans.
As of Jan. 1, 2024, HB 2295 declared that service-disabled designation is no longer required. This update expands access and honors the leadership, skill and dedication that all veterans bring to Oregon’s business community. Visit the VBE Certification website to learn more.
Veteran entrepreneurs bring valuable perspectives and talents to public procurement. By expanding who can be certified, Oregon strengthens our supplier pool, builds economic resilience and creates more opportunities for veterans to participate in state contracting.
For agencies and prime contractors, filtering vendors for the VBE designation offers a clear way to connect with veteran-owned businesses in OregonBuys. For veterans, indicating your certification status in OregonBuys opens doors to new contracting opportunities.
Supporting veteran-owned businesses isn’t just a November message, it is an investment in a stronger and more inclusive marketplace for all Oregonians.
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The OPE outreach team is hard at work planning outreach, training, and technical assistance for 2026. Stay tuned and check out the OPE website for updates on future opportunities!
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