Certification Programs
Metro Connect Small and Disadvantaged Business Certifications help open the door to contracting opportunities with Metro. We've implemented programs that hold our staff and contractors to specific contracting goals for small and disadvantaged businesses. Our certifications give these businesses broader access to contracting opportunities.
Metro currently certifies and accepts two types of certifications:
Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) and Small Business Enterprise (SBE). Only one application is required for both DBE and SBE certification. Metro only accepts online applications. Apply here.
If your firm is already certified by a California Unified Certification Program (CUCP) certifying agency, Metro will recognize and accept your DBE certification. The CUCP member agencies including Metro adhere to Federal Code (Title 49 Part 26) in making DBE certification determinations. However, to participate in Metro's SBE Program, you must be certified with Metro as the program requirements and allowances are unique to Metro.
Some of the requirements for DBE and SBE certification are:
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The business must be independent and organized for profit
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Qualified owner(s) personal net worth must be less than $1.32 million
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Annual gross receipts must be less than $23.98 million (three year average)
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The qualifying individual must be in control of management and daily business operations
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Qualified applicant(s) must own 51% of the business
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The applicant must be a U.S. Citizen or lawfully admitted permanent resident
While the SBE program is gender and racial neutral the DBE program requires that the applicant(s) be socially as well as economically disadvantaged. Federal Code (Title 49 Part 26) defines this as an individual who is a citizen of the United States (or lawfully admitted permanent resident) who is a member of the following groups: African Americans, Hispanics, Native Americans, Asian-Pacific Americans, Subcontinent Asian Americans and Women.
Disabled Veterans Business Enterprise (DVBE) Certification – for businesses owned by disabled United States military veterans. Metro does not process this certification but recognizes the California Department of General Services' certification.
For questions or assistance regarding certifications, email us at certificationunit@metro.net.
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