Introduction to the DBE Program:

The DBE/EEO Programs/Contract Compliance Department is an integral part of CTA's operations. The department is responsible for ensuring that CTA utilizes bonafide DBE's and does not discriminate in its procurement, employment, service or contracting activities. Through outreach, training and dissemination of information, we proactively serve as an intermediary and liaison in interacting with employees, businesses, community organizations, minority and female contractor associations and public officials. We also have positive impact on both the local and national economy.

The DBE/EEO Programs/Contract Compliance Department is a team that is committed to ensure equality of opportunity for contracting and employment practices amongst those vendors, contractors, suppliers and employers who participate in the delivery of transit services to our communities.

Disadvantaged Business Enterprise Program & Small Business Development:

The primary function of the Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) Program Unit is to ensure that those who participate in CTA contracts are owned and controlled by one or more minorities or women. The Unit also ensures that they meet the certification criteria in the definition of DBE's who are socially and economically disadvantaged individuals and certifies enterprises so that they may do business with CTA. In addition, this unit develops various business development initiatives which enable its DBE Vendors to expand its capacity and capabilities within the mainstream of their industries.

The responsibilities of the DBE Unit include:

• Performing desk audits on incoming certification applications
• Conducting on-site visits to firms requesting certification as a DBE
• Coordinating appeals from the Federal Department of Transportation for decertified or firms denied certification
• Providing technical assistance to firms seeking certification and to organizations providing business development needs to minority and female-owned firms
• Ascertains eligibility of potential vendors who may qualify as participants in the Authority's DBE/Small Business Program
• Conducts on-site visits to firm's business locations in order to ensure authenticity of DBE/Small Business eligibility standards
• Performs evaluations and makes recommendations regarding Small Business awards on CTA operating procurements
• Provide vendor assistance by assistance by assisting new vendors in completing application for DBE/Small Business eligibility
• Maintains effective networking relationships with various governmental agencies, community groups, business groups and trade organizations
• Recruits and recommends Business Development services for DBE vendors to the Authority's Business Development Program