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DBE
The Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) Program is a federally mandated initiative that provides minorities, women, and other eligible small businesses opportunities to participate in federally and state-funded transportation contracts. To support DBE participation, IDOT sets an annual overall goal that remains in place for three years per applicable federal agency.
To ensure compliance, IDOT’s EEO Contract Compliance Officers oversee DBE goal credit, labor compliance, and EEO reviews. Additionally, the DBE Supportive Services Program provides free management and technical assistance to certified and prospective DBEs. For more details, visit the DBE Certification, DBE Compliance, and DBE Supportive Services pages.
2025 Interim Final Rule (IFR) from the U.S. DOT
- Further U.S. DOT guidance on the IFR can be found at: October 3, 2025 DOCR letter on the IFR
- Official frequently asked questions (FAQs) on the IFR can be found at: DBE IFR FAQ's
Bureau of Small Business Enterprises
In accordance with 49 Code of Federal Regulations 26.45, the Illinois Department of Transportation will submit a revised triennial Overall DBE Goal-Setting Methodology to the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA). The methodology calls for an overall DBE goal of 14.4% for federal fiscal years 2026-2028. IDOT expects to meet 12.4% of this goal through DBE-conscious means and 2.0% of this goal through DBE-neutral means.
The Overall DBE Goal-Setting Methodology Report is included for public inspection below and public comments are welcome.
Goal Documents & Studies
In 2009, IDOT commissioned a Disparity Study focused on construction, architecture and engineering. The Disparity Study reviewed contract data during the period of January 1, 2006 through December 31, 2008. In 2012 IDOT commissioned an updated availability study.
In 2016, IDOT commissioned a disparity study focused on construction, architecture, and engineering. The study reviewed contract data during the period of October 1, 2012, through September 30, 2016. This study was completed in 2017 and published for release in February 2018. The 2017 IDOT Disparity Study is available below.