How Do I Get Certified?
 

DBE Certification Process Change

 

Due to the events related to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Minnesota Unified Certification Program (MNUCP) will suspend in-person on-site visits to review DBE applicant businesses seeking certification. Instead, the MnUCP will use remote technology options for completing the on-site visits and in-person interviews. During the certification process, our specialists will work with the applicant to identify technology tools compatible with both the applicant and certifying agency to complete a virtual review of the business operations. This is a new approach to the certification process so we appreciate your patience and cooperation while we implement this practice.

How Do I Know If I Qualify?
The DBE program is for business owners that are socially and economically disadvantaged. Women and African Americans, Hispanics, Native Americans, Asian-Pacific and Subcontinent Asian Americans are presumed to be socially and economically disadvantaged. Other individuals can also qualify as socially and economically disadvantaged on a case-by-case basis. 

To be regarded as economically disadvantaged, an individual must have a personal net worth that does not exceed $2.047 million. To be seen as a small business, a firm must meet Small Business Administration size criteria AND have average annual gross receipts not to exceed $30.72 million when averaged over a three year period.

The owner must have technical competence and experience directly related to the type of work in which certification is being sought and must be a United States citizen or a lawfully admitted permanent resident of the United States.

Size limits for the Airport Concessions DBE program are higher.  
What is the Certification Process?
Where Can I Apply Online?
Can I Download a Copy of the Application?
Where Can I Get More Information?
Are there other certifications that could help me?