Do Business With CDOT

Getting Certified

Certifications

Small business certifications are like professional certifications; they document a special capability or status that can help you compete in the marketplace. Unlike permits and licenses, you do not need to obtain certifications to legally operate. However, in order to take advantage of business opportunities with various federal, state and municipal agencies, you should obtain the certifications for which your business qualifies. There are several different small business programs in which Colorado businesses can participate. Some of these apply generally across multiple agencies and some are specific to one agency only.

The below graphic shows certifications federal, state, local and private sector certifications for which your company may be eligible. Click on each certification to find out more information.

Unsure what certifications are best for your business? Or need guidance on how to apply? Schedule a no-cost consulting appointment with our consultants for assistance.

Small Business Administration Certifications

Link to Veteran-Owned Small Business and Service Disabled Veteran Owned Small Business Certification

Small Disadvantaged Business Certifications

Women Owned Small Business Certification

Link to Colorado Department of Transportation Certifications

Link to Disadvantaged Enterprise Business certification

Link to Emerging Small Business certification

City and County of Denver Certifications

Link to Disadvantaged Business Enterprise certification

Link to Emerging Business Enterprise certification

Link to City and County of Denver minority business enterprise certification

Link to Small Business Enterprise Certification

Regional Transportation District Certifications

Link to RTD Small Business Enterprise certification

Mountain Plains Minority Supplier Development Certifications

Link to Minority Business Enterprise Certification

Women's Business Enterprise National Council Certifications

Link to Women Owned Small Business certification

National Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce Certifications

Why should I get certified?

Increases access to government contracting opportunities; agencies are mandated to award a substantial number of contracts to certified businesses or allocate a certain percentage of work on projects
Provides visibility through a listing in the Unified Certification Program (UCP) directory and other agency-specific directories
Gives a competitive advantage in the marketplace and adds established credibility for the company
Offers support through additional government programs such as the CDOT Mentor-Protégé program
Facilitates subcontracting on large projects by general contractors that are required to source a percentage of work from certified small businesses
Opens eligibility for financial assistance in the form of low interest loans, grants, and other fiduciary benefits
Grants access to Connect2DOT resources including business training, one-on-one counseling, and connections
Authorizes use of specific certification logos on all business correspondences, emails, letterhead, and websites

Where can I find a list of DBE-certified firms?

Once certified, DBE firms are listed on the statewide DBE Directory. This provides exposure for DBE's because agencies and prime contractors use this database to search for firms by name or NAICS code (referred to as "Work Code" on the Directory). NAICS is the standard used by Federal statistical agencies in classifying business establishments for the purpose of collecting, analyzing, and publishing statistical data related to the U.S. business economy. You can use the U.S. Census Bureau NAICS Search page to look up NAICS Code definitions.

Where can I find a list of ESB-certified firms?

CDOT manages a directory of certified Emerging Small Businesses (ESB) that can be used to locate subcontractors to work on CDOT projects. ESB firms have access to a variety of program benefits including ESB Restricted Projects, free Bid Express accounts, and support services. Prime contractors receive incentives such as financial reimbursements and scoring points on proposals by committing to use ESB subcontractors.

The ESB Directory is a great marketing tool for small businesses looking for more exposure with prime contractors. Prime contractors use this database to search for firms by name or business description keywords.

Now that I'm certified, how do I market myself to primes?

Many small business owners have a good handle on how to manage and operate their business but they need help finding project opportunities. It is important to get your name known with key players in the transportation industry. Put together a brief capabilities statement about your company and then get out and attend events, make personal phone calls, schedule one-on-one meetings with primes, send an introduction via email, visit a project site, and make yourself known!

Find CDOT prime contractors and prime consultants
Connect with industry associations
Attend networking events
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How much does it cost to apply?

Federal: $0 to apply and renew
CDOT: $0 to apply and renew
City and County of Denver: $0 to apply and renew ACDBE/DBE. $200 to apply for SBEC/SBE/MWBE/EBE and $50 to renew
RTD: $0 to apply and renew
RMMPSDC: Sliding scale fee from $525 - $1,150 for MBE
WBENC: $0 to apply and renew WOSB. Sliding scale fee from $350 - $1,250 for WBE
NGLCC: $400 to apply and $200 to renew LGBT (waived with proof of membership in local affiliated chamber of commerce)

If I apply for DBE certification with City and County of Denver, will it count for CDOT?

Yes. The state of Colorado has a Unified Certification Program. You can apply through either CDOT or the City and County of Denver and your DBE certification. The DBE certification is then recognized by over 50 government agencies across the state.