DBE vs ACDBE Certification
Understanding the two USDOT disadvantaged business certification programs and which is right for your business.
Program Background
The United States Department of Transportation (USDOT) administers a Disadvantaged Business Enterprise Program under two categories to maximize business opportunities for small disadvantaged businesses:
- ACDBE — Airport Concessionaire Disadvantaged Business Enterprise, for small businesses seeking to operate concessions at U.S. airports (49 CFR Part 23)
- DBE — Disadvantaged Business Enterprise, for all other USDOT-funded business activity including construction, engineering, and professional services (49 CFR Part 26)
Comparison Table
| Feature | DBE (Part 26) | ACDBE (Part 23) |
|---|---|---|
| Regulation | 49 CFR Part 26 | 49 CFR Part 23 |
| Contract Types | Construction, engineering, consulting, materials | Airport concessions, car rentals, food service |
| Funding Source | FHWA, FTA | FAA |
| Gross Receipts Cap | $28.48M (verify current) | $56.42M (verify current) |
| Personal Net Worth | $1,320,000 | $1,320,000 |
| Ownership | 51% by disadvantaged individuals | 51% by disadvantaged individuals |
| Certification Required? | No (but needed for DBE goal credit) | No (but needed for ACDBE goal credit) |
Dollar thresholds are periodically adjusted for inflation. Verify at ucp.dot.ca.gov.
Why Become Certified?
Benefits of DBE Certification
- Participate in $20+ billion of annual USDOT-funded projects
- Listed in the CUCP statewide database
- Opportunities in construction, engineering, consulting, and procurement
- Accepted by all CUCP agencies statewide
Benefits of ACDBE Certification
- Counted toward airport annual ACDBE participation goals
- Participate as prime bidder, JV partner, or sublessee
- Concession opportunities at major California airports
- Higher gross receipts cap than DBE program
Ready to apply? See the application process or check your eligibility requirements. For additional information, visit the USDOT DBE Program page.
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