by Yolanda Goodloe | April 29, 2024
As the infrastructure landscape undergoes a seismic shift with the passage of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, businesses in the transportation, construction and professional services industries are poised at the precipice of unparalleled opportunities. Now, more than ever, it’s crucial for businesses to capitalize on these prospects by tapping into government contracting opportunities, particularly those offered by the United States Department of Transportation (DOT). At the forefront of this endeavor lies the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) and its array of certifications and supportive services designed to empower businesses to thrive in this evolving terrain.
Get Certified: Leveling the Playing Field
Becoming certified as a Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) or a Small Business Enterprise (SBE) with FDOT opens doors to a wealth of opportunities. These certifications are designed to promote the participation of small businesses owned by socially and economically disadvantaged individuals in transportation contracts. By leveling the playing field and increasing opportunities for disadvantaged businesses to compete and succeed in the transportation industry, FDOT certifications pave the way for long-term success and sustainability. As businesses prepare to navigate the burgeoning opportunities presented by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, leveraging FDOT certifications and programs is paramount. Not only do these initiatives provide access to lucrative contracting opportunities, but they also offer invaluable supportive services that can elevate businesses, build capacity, and foster competitiveness in an ever-evolving landscape. By seizing these opportunities and positioning themselves strategically, businesses can thrive and prosper in the dynamic infrastructure sector.
FDOT Certifications: Elevating Your Brand, Building Trust
Obtaining certifications through FDOT can be a game-changer for businesses, offering a multitude of benefits beyond just securing contracts. While the allure of direct contracts with FDOT is undeniable, the value of certification extends far beyond the immediate transaction. By becoming certified, businesses elevate their brand and establish themselves as credible and trustworthy entities in the industry. This stamp of approval not only instills confidence in potential clients but also opens doors to a wider array of opportunities.
Supportive Services: Building Capacity and Competitiveness
One of the most valuable aspects of engaging with FDOT is access to a myriad of supportive services aimed at bolstering businesses’ capabilities and competitiveness. These programs provide resources and guidance to help businesses grow, become self-sufficient, and successfully compete for contracts with the department. Among these supportive services are:
- U.S. Department of Transportation Southeast Small Business Transportation Resource Center (SBTRC): The Florida State Minority Supplier Development Council (FSMSDC) serves as service provider for the SBTRC. FSMSDC assists small and disadvantaged businesses in building their capacity to bid and perform on transportation projects and professional service procurements.
- FDOT’s Construction Management Development Program (CMDP): A voluntary program designed to improve and develop skills of owners and managers enabling them to perform successfully on FDOT projects. CMDP offers small and disadvantaged businesses classroom, online, and on-the-job training, enhancing both technical and business management skills.
- FDOT’s Bond Guarantee Program: DBEs who complete the CMDP are eligible to participate in this program, providing bond guarantees of up to $500,000, alleviating financial barriers and enabling greater participation in contracting opportunities.
- FDOT’s DBE Supportive Services Program: Aimed at enhancing the participation of certified Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) contractors and consultants in FDOT projects, this program seeks to increase both the number of certified DBEs engaging with FDOT and the percentage of dollars awarded to DBEs.
- FDOT Business Development Initiative (BDI): The FDOT Business Development Initiative (BDI) stands as a testament to FDOT’s commitment to fostering a competitive and inclusive contracting environment. Designed to increase competition, lower prices, and bolster support for small businesses, the BDI provides a strategic framework for businesses to transition from subcontracting and sub-consulting roles to prime contracting and consulting positions.
The FDOT Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) and Small Business Development Programs offer a large selection of benefits to businesses seeking to thrive in the transportation industry. These programs provide essential support and resources to socially and economically disadvantaged individuals, enabling them to compete on a level playing field.
By obtaining DBE or Small Business Enterprise (SBE) certification, businesses gain access to a wide array of contracting opportunities, fostering growth and sustainability. Moreover, these programs offer invaluable assistance in navigating the complexities of government contracting, including access to training, technical assistance, and networking opportunities. Ultimately, participation in these programs not only enhances business viability but also contributes to the overall economic development of the community.
To learn more about FDOT’s certifications, programs, and services visit them at https://www.fdot.gov/equalopportunity/programsandservices.shtm
Yolanda Goodloe
Consultants, Cowart, Government Contracting Consultants, PinellasSpecialty: Procurement Yolanda Goodloe has more than 20 years of experience in public service at the local and municipal levels. Early in her career, she worked as a human resources and relations professional while serving as a liaison to the business community and advocacy groups. Her prior experience includes being a human relations specialist for Lee County Government, and an equal opportunity director for the City of Fort Lauderdale. Her background combines public service and human relations experience with hands on leadership in equal opportunity, supplier diversity, business certifications programs, organizational training and development, and managing workforce diversity principles. Goodloe is the procurement specialist for the Florida PTAC at Pinellas County Economic Development. She connects businesses to resources and tools for state, local, and federal contracting opportunities. She is a Certified Procurement Professional (CPP), a Supply Chain Management Professional (SCMP), and a Certified Verification Counselor. She graduated from Florida State University with a bachelor of arts in political science and history.