Small Business Concern (SBC) Registration

In partnership with the cities of Phoenix and Tucson, ADOT has implemented a Small Business Concern (SBC) component to its Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) program. This required by the federal regulations (49 CFR 26.39) governing the state's DBE program.

The SBC part of the DBE program will not require a complex certification process, nor will it add a second layer of SBC goals to projects. Instead, small businesses interested in providing goods and services on federal-aid projects can complete a few additional questions at the end of the AZ UTRACS Registration (required for all firms) to become SBC Registered. This process makes it easy for firms to register as an SBC.

Because the SBC component is a part of the DBE program, ADOT will include registered SBC's in its outreach, education and networking events coordinated by the DBE Supportive Services program. ADOT hosts a variety of free networking events for subcontractors to meet primes, two regional conferences annually, regional training and workshops, and an annual expo. These events help increase the visibility of small and disadvantaged businesses participating in the ADOT DBE program.

The SBC component benefits each stakeholder differently. Here are some examples:

ADOT will be able to identify additional businesses that are able to support and build Arizona's transportation infrastructure.
SBCs will become more visible to contractors, prime consultants, local public agencies and procurement officers with current and upcoming business opportunities throughout the state.
ADOT, the City of Phoenix, the City of Tucson and other local government entities that receive federal funding will include language in their contracts to encourage the use of SBCs on transportation projects.
SBCs will be eligible to participate in DBE business development activities, bidding opportunity discussions, networking events, conferences and workshops provided by ADOT.
Certified DBE firms will be able to expand their experience and capabilities to build additional experience toward future areas of certification.
Prime contractors/consultants and government agencies will be able to more easily find local, small-business vendors for their projects.

Small businesses can register by indicating their business size, services and owner contact information, and by indicating that they meet the Small Business Administration size standard average annual income criteria for their primary North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) code. The Small Business Size Standards Table is available online.

For more information, contact the Business Engagement and Compliance Office at 602.712.7761.