Threshold raised for companies to participate in Emerging Small Business Program
More small Oregon-based businesses will be able to qualify for ESB certification
The Oregon Certification Office for Business Inclusion and Diversity, also known as COBID, increased the financial thresholds for the 2024 Emerging Small Business Program making the program even more accessible to small business. These adjustments are tied to increases in the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics’ Consumer Price Index and are designed to reflect current economic conditions. This change expands eligibility, enabling more small Oregon-based businesses to qualify for ESB certification.
Financial and Employee Thresholds for ESB Eligibility
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New as of September 10, 2024
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Prior Thresholds
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Non-Construction
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Tier 1
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19 or fewer employees
Gross proceeds < $999,643
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19 or fewer employees
Gross proceeds < $789,198
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Tier 2
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29 or fewer employees
Gross proceeds < $1,666,073
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29 or fewer employees
Gross proceeds < $1,315,331
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Construction
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Tier 1
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19 or fewer employees
Gross proceeds < $2,499,109
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19 or fewer employees
Gross proceeds < $1,972,993
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Tier 2
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29 or fewer employees
Gross proceeds < $4,998,220
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29 or fewer employees
Gross proceeds < $3,945,900
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The Oregon Department of Transportation's Office of Equity and Civil Rights, oversees the Emerging Small Business Program. Program Coordinator Catherine Biscoe said, “This change opens the door for more Oregon businesses to participate in our program. Now, more Oregon companies are eligible to bid on ESB contracts. That’s great for ODOT and for businesses.”
Who Qualifies as an Emerging Small Business?
Besides meeting financial and employee thresholds, a firm must:
- Have its principal place of business located in Oregon;
- Be an independent business and not a subsidiary of a larger firm;
- Be properly licensed and legally registered in the state of Oregon;
A company can be in the Emerging Small Business Program for a maximum of 12 years. Certification is done through the Certification Office for Business Inclusion and Diversity.
What are the Benefits of Being an ESB?
The Oregon Department of Transportation offers millions of dollars in contracting opportunities annually. The agency has exclusive contracts for Emerging Small Businesses, empowering these firms to grow and compete for larger projects. The program provides support at every stage, from training and mentoring to bidding on major contracts.
“We're dedicated to breaking down barriers and creating a level playing field for Oregon's small businesses in the competitive world of public contracting,” said Biscoe.
Other programs and resources for small businesses offered include:
- Small Business Development Program
- Small business resources, including training
- Mentor-Protégé Program and more
Contact ODOT’s Office of Equity and Civil Rights for more information.
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