Glossary

A business that has completed a vigorous nine-year program created by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) to help firms owned by socially and economically disadvantaged individuals.

A subcategory of the Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) certification that applies to businesses operating at airports. It ensures opportunities for disadvantaged businesses in airport-related contracts.

A federal designation administered by the Department of Transportation (DOT) for businesses owned by socially and economically disadvantaged individuals. It is aimed at providing equal access to government contracting opportunities.

A specific DBE certification for businesses involved in Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)-related projects. It ensures disadvantaged businesses can participate in federal aviation contracts.

A business with this certification operates in a zone designated to boost economic growth through tax incentives and local business support.

A certification granted by the EDGE Program to businesses that are at least one year old and 51% owned by socially and economically disadvantaged individuals, or is located in a qualified census tract and the owner is economically disadvantaged.

A certification granted by the Small Business Association (SBA) to Women-Owned Small Businesses (WOSBs) that meet the criteria of an economically disadvantaged individual.

A designation given to businesses in areas that have historically been economically disadvantaged, providing them with access to certain contracting opportunities and resources.

A business partnership where at least one company is HUBZone certified, allowing them to compete for government contracts in historically underutilized business zones (HUBZones). This is a self-certification through the SBA.

A designation for businesses in a local area that are owned by socially and economically disadvantaged individuals, providing them with access to local contracting opportunities.

A business that is at least 51% owned and controlled by individuals who are socially and economically disadvantaged, often eligible for preferential treatment in government contracts. This is a self-certification through the SBA.

A designation awarded to a business that is at least 51% owned by Section 3 residents, has at least 30% of its full-time employees as Section 3 residents (or individuals who were Section 3 residents within three years of their hire date), or commits at least 25% of awarded subcontracts to qualifying businesses.

A business owned by individuals who are socially and economically disadvantaged, as defined by factors such as race, ethnicity, gender, or economic hardship.

A business owned by non-minority men who qualify as socially and economically disadvantaged.

A certified DBE (Disadvantaged Business Enterprise) participating in a program that supports small, underutilized businesses by helping them access contracts and procurement opportunities.

A business that provides employment opportunities and a supportive work environment to individuals with disabilities.