Introduction

It is the policy of the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) to promote increased participation of DBEs in federal-aid highway contracts through the development and implementation of supportive services programs administered by State Transportation Agencies (STA). Supportive Services are those activities and services that are designed to contribute to the growth and eventual self-sufficiency of DBEs so that they may achieve proficiency in competing for contracts and subcontracts. This DBE/SS Program document was developed using the guidance outlined in 23 CFR 230 Subpart B, and 49 CFR 26 (26.51 and Appendix C, Section (D). (See Attachment #1)

Background

The FHWA Headquarters Office of Civil Rights (HCR) annually allocates DBE supportive service funds to STAs. The purpose of these funds is to aid the STA in developing a DBE/SS program that is designed to increase the number of certified, qualified DBEs active in the highway program and contributes to their growth and self-sufficiency.

In an effort to improve FHWA's DBE/SS program, HCR has undertaken various special initiatives to obtain input and feedback from our customers, partners, and stakeholders on the best approaches to meet the goals and objectives of this program. The information contained in this document represents the outcome of those efforts. This document is designed to assist FHWA, State Transportation Agencies (STAs), and other interested parties in developing, conducting, and administering a cost effective DBE/SS program that meets specific goals and objectives. The guidance included in this DBE/SS program document applies to STAs who administer a DBE/SS program with their own staff ("in-house"), as well as those who provide DBE/SS through an outside consultant.

Future allocations of DBE/SS funds will be based upon programs that can be shown to achieve results. The DBE/SS Program focus is on developing a performance-based statement of work. As used in this document, a performance-based statement of work is intended to ensure accountability and necessarily includes performance goals and objectives, and measures results. Accountability refers to the act of being answerable for the expenditure of public funds and accomplishing the stated purpose as included in 23 CFR 230.

“… a primary purpose of supportive services is to increase the total number of minority firms participating in the Federal-aid highway program and to contribute to the growth and eventual self-sufficiency of minority firms.”

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