{"id":5318,"date":"2024-03-19T15:19:05","date_gmt":"2024-03-19T20:19:05","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/elkingconsulting.com\/?p=5318"},"modified":"2024-09-10T16:09:05","modified_gmt":"2024-09-10T21:09:05","slug":"dbe-certification-idot","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/s046.wptstaging.space\/elking\/dbe-certification-idot\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Apply for DBE Certification with IDOT"},"content":{"rendered":"\t\t<div data-elementor-type=\"wp-post\" data-elementor-id=\"5318\" class=\"elementor elementor-5318\" data-elementor-post-type=\"post\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<section class=\"elementor-section elementor-top-section elementor-element elementor-element-4a36592b elementor-section-boxed elementor-section-height-default elementor-section-height-default parallax_section_no qode_elementor_container_no\" data-id=\"4a36592b\" data-element_type=\"section\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-container elementor-column-gap-default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-column elementor-col-100 elementor-top-column elementor-element elementor-element-525d85f7\" data-id=\"525d85f7\" data-element_type=\"column\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-8ffeee0 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"8ffeee0\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>Getting certified as a women or minority-owned business with the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) is not about obtaining a piece of paper; it&#8217;s about unlocking <strong>opportunities and set-asides<\/strong> to government contracts. In short, more $$$.<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p>In this blog post, I&#8217;ll outline your next <strong>steps you should take to apply for certification<\/strong> under IDOT&#8217;s Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) Program.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p>I&#8217;ll also share some insider tips and insights to make the process smoother for you. I know you are already busy running your company, so you have time restraints and want to make your application process as seamless as possible!<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-7d8f86b elementor-toc--minimized-on-tablet elementor-invisible elementor-widget elementor-widget-table-of-contents\" data-id=\"7d8f86b\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-settings=\"{&quot;exclude_headings_by_selector&quot;:[],&quot;marker_view&quot;:&quot;bullets&quot;,&quot;_animation&quot;:&quot;slideInRight&quot;,&quot;headings_by_tags&quot;:[&quot;h2&quot;,&quot;h3&quot;],&quot;icon&quot;:{&quot;value&quot;:&quot;fas fa-circle&quot;,&quot;library&quot;:&quot;fa-solid&quot;},&quot;no_headings_message&quot;:&quot;No headings were found on this page.&quot;,&quot;minimize_box&quot;:&quot;yes&quot;,&quot;minimized_on&quot;:&quot;tablet&quot;,&quot;hierarchical_view&quot;:&quot;yes&quot;,&quot;min_height&quot;:{&quot;unit&quot;:&quot;px&quot;,&quot;size&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;sizes&quot;:[]},&quot;min_height_tablet&quot;:{&quot;unit&quot;:&quot;px&quot;,&quot;size&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;sizes&quot;:[]},&quot;min_height_mobile&quot;:{&quot;unit&quot;:&quot;px&quot;,&quot;size&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;sizes&quot;:[]}}\" data-widget_type=\"table-of-contents.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-toc__header\">\n\t\t\t<h3 class=\"elementor-toc__header-title\">\n\t\t\t\tTable of Contents\t\t\t<\/h3>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-toc__toggle-button elementor-toc__toggle-button--expand\" role=\"button\" tabindex=\"0\" aria-controls=\"elementor-toc__7d8f86b\" aria-expanded=\"true\" aria-label=\"Open table of contents\"><i aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"fas fa-chevron-down\"><\/i><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-toc__toggle-button elementor-toc__toggle-button--collapse\" role=\"button\" tabindex=\"0\" aria-controls=\"elementor-toc__7d8f86b\" aria-expanded=\"true\" aria-label=\"Close table of contents\"><i aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"fas fa-chevron-up\"><\/i><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<div id=\"elementor-toc__7d8f86b\" class=\"elementor-toc__body\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-toc__spinner-container\">\n\t\t\t\t<i class=\"elementor-toc__spinner eicon-animation-spin eicon-loading\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-183dcca5 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"183dcca5\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:heading --><\/p>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What is the DBE Program?<\/h2>\n<p><!-- \/wp:heading --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p>The Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) Program is a federal program administrated by IDOT that provides minorities, women and other eligible small businesses an opportunity to participate in highway, mass transit and airport contracts that are federally and state-funded. The program seeks to promote diversity and level the playing field for small businesses owned by women or minorities in the <strong>transportation industry<\/strong>.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p>A \u201cDBE\u201d is a <strong>Disadvantaged Business Enterprise<\/strong>, which is the term IDOT uses in their program to include a women business enterprise (WBE), a minority business enterprise (MBE), and a small business enterprise (SBE).<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p>The program requires <strong>set-aside goals<\/strong> for utilizing certified DBEs on their transportation projects. This creates significant opportunities for certified DBEs (or as you make recognize them, WBEs and MBEs) to secure more government contracts and grow their businesses.<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:heading --><\/p>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Steps to Become a DBE with IDOT<\/h2>\n<p><!-- \/wp:heading --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p>These are the essential steps to become a certified DBE with IDOT:<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} --><\/p>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step 1: Determine your company\u2019s eligibility<\/h3>\n<p><!-- \/wp:heading --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p>Are you eligible?\u00a0<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p>There are a few requirements to be met, including:<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p><strong>1. Group Membership<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p>The eligible \u201cdisadvantaged\u201d groups are:<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:list --><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"list-style-type: none;\">\n<ul><!-- wp:list-item --><\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"list-style-type: none;\">\n<ul>\n<li>Black Americans\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><!-- \/wp:list-item --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:list-item --><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"list-style-type: none;\">\n<ul>\n<li>Hispanic Americans\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><!-- \/wp:list-item --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:list-item --><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"list-style-type: none;\">\n<ul>\n<li>Native Americans\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><!-- \/wp:list-item --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:list-item --><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"list-style-type: none;\">\n<ul>\n<li>Asian-Pacific Americans\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><!-- \/wp:list-item --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:list-item --><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"list-style-type: none;\">\n<ul>\n<li>Subcontinent Asian Americans\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><!-- \/wp:list-item --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:list-item --><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"list-style-type: none;\">\n<ul>\n<li>Women\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><!-- \/wp:list-item --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:list-item --><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"list-style-type: none;\">\n<ul>\n<li>Any additional groups whose members are designated as socially and economically disadvantaged by the Small Business Administration (SBA), at such time as the SBA designation becomes effective.\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><!-- \/wp:list-item --><\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:list --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p><strong>2. Ownership + Control Requirements<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p>For your business to qualify as a DBE, it must be at least <strong>51% owned<\/strong> by individuals who belong to one or more of the presumptive groups mentioned earlier. This means that the majority ownership should lie in the hands of Black Americans, Hispanic Americans, Native Americans, Asian-Pacific Americans, Subcontinent Asian Americans, or women.<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p>However, ownership is just one piece of the puzzle; control is equally vital. Your business must demonstrate that the individuals who belong to the presumptive groups have both the power to make decisions and the expertise to run the company effectively. This includes holding key positions within the organization and being involved in its day-to-day operations and long-term strategic planning.<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p><strong>3. Business Size<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p>To meet the size requirements of the DBE program, a firm, including its affiliates, must have average annual gross receipts, over the firm&#8217;s previous three fiscal years, that do not exceed the following size caps:\u00a0<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:list --><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"list-style-type: none;\">\n<ul><!-- wp:list-item --><\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"list-style-type: none;\">\n<ul>\n<li>General construction firms (e.g., highway, street and bridge construction): the size cap is $22.41 million<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><!-- \/wp:list-item --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:list-item --><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"list-style-type: none;\">\n<ul>\n<li>Specialty trades (e.g., electrical, plumbing and site preparation): the size cap is $14 million<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><!-- \/wp:list-item --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:list-item --><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"list-style-type: none;\">\n<ul>\n<li>Landscaping services: the size cap is $7 million<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><!-- \/wp:list-item --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:list-item --><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"list-style-type: none;\">\n<ul>\n<li>Professional, scientific and technical services (e.g., engineering, drafting, geophysical surveying and mapping, surveying and mapping (except geophysical), and environmental consulting):\u00a0 the size caps are as follows:<!-- wp:list -->\n<ul>\n<li style=\"list-style-type: none;\">\n<ul><!-- wp:list-item --><\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"list-style-type: none;\">\n<ul>\n<li>Engineering Services &#8211; $19 million\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><!-- \/wp:list-item --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:list-item --><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"list-style-type: none;\">\n<ul>\n<li>Drafting Services &#8211; $7 million\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><!-- \/wp:list-item --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:list-item --><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"list-style-type: none;\">\n<ul>\n<li>Geophysical Surveying and Mapping Services &#8211; $14 million\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><!-- \/wp:list-item --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:list-item --><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"list-style-type: none;\">\n<ul>\n<li>Surveying and Mapping (except Geophysical) Services \u2013 $14 million\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><!-- \/wp:list-item --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:list-item --><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"list-style-type: none;\">\n<ul>\n<li>Environmental Consulting Services &#8211; $14 million\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><!-- \/wp:list-item --><\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:list --><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><!-- \/wp:list-item --><\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:list --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} --><\/p>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step 2: Gather documentation<\/h3>\n<p><!-- \/wp:heading --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p>Now that you&#8217;ve confirmed your company&#8217;s eligibility, it&#8217;s time to roll up your sleeves and gather the necessary documentation to bolster your application for certification.<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p>Spend the time to gather the documentation on the checklist. It will ease the process of submitting your application. If you fail to submit all the required documentation or fill out the application incorrectly, your application will be delayed or denied.<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p>With IDOT applications specifically, I always recommend that my clients create two \u201cfiles\u201d when starting their Document Collection Phase:<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:list {\"ordered\":true} --><\/p>\n<ol>\n<li style=\"list-style-type: none;\">\n<ol><!-- wp:list-item --><\/ol>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>1. Paper version<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:list-item --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:list-item --><\/p>\n<p>2. Digital version<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:list-item --><\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:list --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p>Ultimately, you will have to mail a printed physical application to IDOT. So create a file folder where you will keep all of your physical documents. This is what you will end up mailing to IDOT with your application.<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p>I still recommend that my clients start with saving their documents in one place online. It makes it easier to review what you have, and you create a nice little folder of all your business documents that you can use later for other certifications.<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p>Create a folder in your Google Drive and title it \u201cIDOT DBE Application.\u201d Start dropping documents from the checklist into the folder. If you prefer to keep your lists online, I have created a Google Sheet that you can download and keep track of your document collection.<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} --><\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:heading --><\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:list-item --><\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:list --><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-a222cb4 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"a222cb4\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step 3: Submit your application and other required documents<\/h3>\n<p><!-- \/wp:heading --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p>Once you&#8217;ve gathered all the necessary paperwork, it&#8217;s time to take the plunge and submit your application to IDOT. But remember, the <strong>details matter<\/strong>. Make sure to double-check that you crossed all your t&#8217;s and dotted your i&#8217;s. A denial is a pain.<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p>Make sure you completed the following:<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:list --><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"list-style-type: none;\">\n<ul><!-- wp:list-item --><\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"list-style-type: none;\">\n<ul>\n<li>Fill out the <a href=\"https:\/\/idot.illinois.gov\/content\/dam\/soi\/en\/web\/idot\/documents\/idot-forms\/dbe\/us-dot-uniform-dbe-acdbe-certification-application.pdf\">Uniform Certification Application<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><!-- \/wp:list-item --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:list-item --><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"list-style-type: none;\">\n<ul>\n<li>Fill out the <a href=\"https:\/\/idot.illinois.gov\/content\/dam\/soi\/en\/web\/idot\/documents\/idot-forms\/dbe\/us-dot-personal-net-worth-statement-for-dbe.pdf\">Personal Net Worth Statement\u00a0<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><!-- \/wp:list-item --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:list-item --><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"list-style-type: none;\">\n<ul>\n<li>Choose your North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) code\/s to determine your work category. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.census.gov\/naics\/\">Review the NAICS codes here<\/a>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><!-- \/wp:list-item --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:list-item --><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"list-style-type: none;\">\n<ul>\n<li>Fill out the <a href=\"https:\/\/docs.google.com\/document\/d\/1jqPSEbg0iaNi54qG4JRxf6Iq5fkrvLT3\/edit?usp=share_link&amp;ouid=107444949450309726777&amp;rtpof=true&amp;sd=true\">Work Category and Location Document<\/a> (Tip: You can utilize the <a href=\"https:\/\/idot.illinois.gov\/content\/dam\/soi\/en\/web\/idot\/documents\/about-idot\/maps-and-charts\/Region%20Map%20no%20names.pdf\">IDOT District Map<\/a>)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><!-- \/wp:list-item --><\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:list --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p>Review each document meticulously. Make sure they are filled out correctly, signed where necessary, and that nothing is missing.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p><strong>Submit Your Application.<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p>Send your completed (and printed) application and supporting documentation to:<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:paragraph {\"align\":\"center\"} --><\/p>\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Attn: Certification Section<br \/>Illinois Department of Transportation<br \/>Bureau of Small Business Enterprises<br \/>2300 South Dirksen Parkway, Room 319<br \/>Springfield, IL 62764<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p>Once you&#8217;ve sent out your application, keep an eye on your mailbox and your inbox for any correspondence from IDOT. They may have additional questions or want to set up an on-site interview. It is so important to respond promptly to avoid any delays in the certification process.<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:heading --><\/p>\n<p>\u00a0<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-435351b elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"435351b\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Conclusion<\/h2>\n<p><!-- \/wp:heading --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p>By following these steps, you&#8217;re embarking on a great opportunity to become certified as a DBE with IDOT! More contracts, more money, baby.<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p>But remember, you don&#8217;t have to go it alone. If you need help or have questions, reach out to IDOT&#8217;s DBE Program Office, or let&#8217;s chat! Together, we can navigate the certification process and help your business reach its full potential.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p>Feel free to <a href=\"https:\/\/s046.wptstaging.space\/elking\/schedule-a-call\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">schedule a quick call with me<\/a>, and check out our private <a href=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/groups\/ilgovcontracts\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Facebook Group<\/a> dedicated to businesses who want to win more government contracts in Illinois.<\/p>\n<p><em>Wishing you success on your certification journey!<\/em><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-4f3b164 elementor-widget elementor-widget-spacer\" data-id=\"4f3b164\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"spacer.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-spacer\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-spacer-inner\"><\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-6af874b elementor-invisible elementor-widget elementor-widget-image\" data-id=\"6af874b\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-settings=\"{&quot;_animation&quot;:&quot;pulse&quot;}\" data-widget_type=\"image.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/groups\/ilgovcontracts\/\" target=\"_blank\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"179\" src=\"https:\/\/s046.wptstaging.space\/elking\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Facebook-Group-Block-for-Blogs-1024x179.png\" class=\"attachment-large size-large wp-image-5221\" alt=\"Facebook group for Illinois businesses seeking government contract opportunities\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s046.wptstaging.space\/elking\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Facebook-Group-Block-for-Blogs-1024x179.png 1024w, https:\/\/s046.wptstaging.space\/elking\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Facebook-Group-Block-for-Blogs-300x52.png 300w, https:\/\/s046.wptstaging.space\/elking\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Facebook-Group-Block-for-Blogs-768x134.png 768w, https:\/\/s046.wptstaging.space\/elking\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Facebook-Group-Block-for-Blogs-700x122.png 700w, https:\/\/s046.wptstaging.space\/elking\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Facebook-Group-Block-for-Blogs.png 1406w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-080292e elementor-widget elementor-widget-spacer\" data-id=\"080292e\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"spacer.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-spacer\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-spacer-inner\"><\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-7016d09 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"7016d09\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">FAQ\u2019s<\/h2>\n<div><span style=\"white-space-collapse: preserve;\">Below are the most frequently asked questions about DBE certification.<\/span><\/div>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t<section class=\"elementor-section elementor-top-section elementor-element elementor-element-a5fc158 elementor-section-boxed elementor-section-height-default elementor-section-height-default parallax_section_no qode_elementor_container_no\" data-id=\"a5fc158\" data-element_type=\"section\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-container elementor-column-gap-default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-column elementor-col-100 elementor-top-column elementor-element elementor-element-3d50863\" data-id=\"3d50863\" data-element_type=\"column\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-7695486 elementor-widget elementor-widget-toggle\" data-id=\"7695486\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"toggle.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-toggle\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-toggle-item\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div id=\"elementor-tab-title-1241\" class=\"elementor-tab-title\" data-tab=\"1\" role=\"button\" aria-controls=\"elementor-tab-content-1241\" aria-expanded=\"false\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"elementor-toggle-icon elementor-toggle-icon-left\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"elementor-toggle-icon-closed\"><i class=\"fas fa-caret-right\"><\/i><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"elementor-toggle-icon-opened\"><i class=\"elementor-toggle-icon-opened fas fa-caret-up\"><\/i><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a class=\"elementor-toggle-title\" tabindex=\"0\">How long does the certification period last?<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<div id=\"elementor-tab-content-1241\" class=\"elementor-tab-content elementor-clearfix\" data-tab=\"1\" role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"elementor-tab-title-1241\"><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A firm\u2019s certification is for the life of the firm unless an adverse decision is rendered to remove the firm\u2019s eligibility. However, you are required to annually submit a No Change Affidavit (and supporting documentation) by the anniversary date of your certification and a Continued Eligibility Affidavit every fifth year of certification.<\/span><\/p><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-toggle-item\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div id=\"elementor-tab-title-1242\" class=\"elementor-tab-title\" data-tab=\"2\" role=\"button\" aria-controls=\"elementor-tab-content-1242\" aria-expanded=\"false\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"elementor-toggle-icon elementor-toggle-icon-left\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"elementor-toggle-icon-closed\"><i class=\"fas fa-caret-right\"><\/i><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"elementor-toggle-icon-opened\"><i class=\"elementor-toggle-icon-opened fas fa-caret-up\"><\/i><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a class=\"elementor-toggle-title\" tabindex=\"0\">Is there a cost to become certified with IDOT\u2019s DBE Program?<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<div id=\"elementor-tab-content-1242\" class=\"elementor-tab-content elementor-clearfix\" data-tab=\"2\" role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"elementor-tab-title-1242\"><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">No, there are no filing fees. The only cost is the application preparation, which could include any consultant or accountant fees.<\/span><\/p><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-toggle-item\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div id=\"elementor-tab-title-1243\" class=\"elementor-tab-title\" data-tab=\"3\" role=\"button\" aria-controls=\"elementor-tab-content-1243\" aria-expanded=\"false\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"elementor-toggle-icon elementor-toggle-icon-left\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"elementor-toggle-icon-closed\"><i class=\"fas fa-caret-right\"><\/i><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"elementor-toggle-icon-opened\"><i class=\"elementor-toggle-icon-opened fas fa-caret-up\"><\/i><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a class=\"elementor-toggle-title\" tabindex=\"0\">How long does it take for the application to process?<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<div id=\"elementor-tab-content-1243\" class=\"elementor-tab-content elementor-clearfix\" data-tab=\"3\" role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"elementor-tab-title-1243\"><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The average processing time is 90 days from <\/span><b>receipt of a complete application<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-toggle-item\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div id=\"elementor-tab-title-1244\" class=\"elementor-tab-title\" data-tab=\"4\" role=\"button\" aria-controls=\"elementor-tab-content-1244\" aria-expanded=\"false\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"elementor-toggle-icon elementor-toggle-icon-left\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"elementor-toggle-icon-closed\"><i class=\"fas fa-caret-right\"><\/i><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"elementor-toggle-icon-opened\"><i class=\"elementor-toggle-icon-opened fas fa-caret-up\"><\/i><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a class=\"elementor-toggle-title\" tabindex=\"0\">Once I am certified, is my firm name listed in a directory?<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<div id=\"elementor-tab-content-1244\" class=\"elementor-tab-content elementor-clearfix\" data-tab=\"4\" role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"elementor-tab-title-1244\"><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yes, your firm will be listed in the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/webapps1.dot.illinois.gov\/UCP\/ExternalSearch\"><b>Illinois Unified Certification Directory<\/b><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">IDOT participates in the Illinois Unified Certification Program (\u201cIL UCP\u201d) which also includes the City of Chicago, CTA, Metra and Pace. The IL UCP maintains the Illinois Unified Certification Directory.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Once certified, your firm\u2019s name, address, contact information, work categories and work location preferences will appear in the Directory. This Directory is used by IDOT\u2019s prime contractors, as well as other agencies and individuals, to provide a reference source of DBE firms to assist bidders\/proposers in meeting DBE contract goals.<\/span><\/p><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-toggle-item\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div id=\"elementor-tab-title-1245\" class=\"elementor-tab-title\" data-tab=\"5\" role=\"button\" aria-controls=\"elementor-tab-content-1245\" aria-expanded=\"false\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"elementor-toggle-icon elementor-toggle-icon-left\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"elementor-toggle-icon-closed\"><i class=\"fas fa-caret-right\"><\/i><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"elementor-toggle-icon-opened\"><i class=\"elementor-toggle-icon-opened fas fa-caret-up\"><\/i><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a class=\"elementor-toggle-title\" tabindex=\"0\">How do you make changes to the Directory?<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<div id=\"elementor-tab-content-1245\" class=\"elementor-tab-content elementor-clearfix\" data-tab=\"5\" role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"elementor-tab-title-1245\"><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It is the responsibility of the individual company\/DBE to ensure the information in the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/webapps1.dot.illinois.gov\/UCP\/ExternalSearch\"><b>Illinois Unified Certification Directory<\/b><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> remains accurate. Changes to contact information must be sent to the certifying agency on firm letterhead.<\/span><\/p><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t<section class=\"elementor-section elementor-top-section elementor-element elementor-element-04b9e70 elementor-section-boxed elementor-section-height-default elementor-section-height-default parallax_section_no qode_elementor_container_no\" data-id=\"04b9e70\" data-element_type=\"section\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-container elementor-column-gap-default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-column elementor-col-100 elementor-top-column elementor-element elementor-element-af14a1e\" data-id=\"af14a1e\" data-element_type=\"column\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-2ae7662 elementor-widget elementor-widget-spacer\" data-id=\"2ae7662\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"spacer.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-spacer\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-spacer-inner\"><\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-b1c47fb elementor-invisible elementor-widget elementor-widget-image\" data-id=\"b1c47fb\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-settings=\"{&quot;_animation&quot;:&quot;fadeInUp&quot;}\" data-widget_type=\"image.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/courses.elkingconsulting.com\/document-checklist-wbe-mbe-certification\" target=\"_blank\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"412\" src=\"https:\/\/s046.wptstaging.space\/elking\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Lead-Magnet-Document-Checklist-Blog-Banner-1-1024x412.png\" class=\"attachment-large size-large wp-image-5404\" alt=\"Free Download - The Ultimate Document Checklist for WBE and MBE Certification in Illinois, Chicago, and Cook County\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s046.wptstaging.space\/elking\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Lead-Magnet-Document-Checklist-Blog-Banner-1-1024x412.png 1024w, https:\/\/s046.wptstaging.space\/elking\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Lead-Magnet-Document-Checklist-Blog-Banner-1-300x121.png 300w, https:\/\/s046.wptstaging.space\/elking\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Lead-Magnet-Document-Checklist-Blog-Banner-1-768x309.png 768w, https:\/\/s046.wptstaging.space\/elking\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Lead-Magnet-Document-Checklist-Blog-Banner-1-700x282.png 700w, https:\/\/s046.wptstaging.space\/elking\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Lead-Magnet-Document-Checklist-Blog-Banner-1.png 1400w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-faed881 elementor-widget elementor-widget-spacer\" data-id=\"faed881\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"spacer.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-spacer\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-spacer-inner\"><\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-8d9da74 elementor-invisible elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"8d9da74\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-settings=\"{&quot;_animation&quot;:&quot;slideInRight&quot;}\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\">You may also be interested in:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/s046.wptstaging.space\/elking\/wbe-certification-chicago\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">How to Apply for WBE Certification in Chicago<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/s046.wptstaging.space\/elking\/wbe-certification-benefits\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Benefits of WBE Certification in Illinois: Contracts, Contacts + Resources<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/s046.wptstaging.space\/elking\/s-corp-bylaws\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Understanding S Corp Bylaws + Free Template<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t<section class=\"elementor-section elementor-top-section elementor-element elementor-element-584a4df elementor-section-boxed elementor-section-height-default elementor-section-height-default parallax_section_no qode_elementor_container_no\" data-id=\"584a4df\" data-element_type=\"section\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-container elementor-column-gap-default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-column elementor-col-100 elementor-top-column elementor-element elementor-element-9f623eb\" data-id=\"9f623eb\" data-element_type=\"column\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-wrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t<section class=\"elementor-section elementor-top-section elementor-element elementor-element-b6ac5e6 elementor-section-boxed elementor-section-height-default elementor-section-height-default parallax_section_no qode_elementor_container_no\" data-id=\"b6ac5e6\" data-element_type=\"section\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-container elementor-column-gap-default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-column elementor-col-100 elementor-top-column elementor-element elementor-element-a9996b7\" data-id=\"a9996b7\" data-element_type=\"column\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-7dd28c6 elementor-widget elementor-widget-catalogbooking\" data-id=\"7dd28c6\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"catalogbooking.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\n<script>\n  if (typeof hasAmeliaEntitiesApiCall === 'undefined' && '' === '') {\n    var hasAmeliaEntitiesApiCall = true;\n  }\n  var ameliaShortcodeData = (typeof ameliaShortcodeData === 'undefined') ? [] : ameliaShortcodeData;\n  ameliaShortcodeData.push(\n    {\n      'hasApiCall': (typeof hasAmeliaEntitiesApiCall !== 'undefined') && hasAmeliaEntitiesApiCall,\n      'trigger': '',\n      'trigger_type': '',\n      'triggered_form': 'cbf',\n      'in_dialog': '',\n      'show': '',\n      'counter': '1000',\n      'package': '',\n      'category': '',\n      'service': '1',\n      'employee': '',\n      'location': '',\n      'categories_hidden': ''\n    }\n  );\n  var ameliaShortcodeDataTriggered = (typeof ameliaShortcodeDataTriggered === 'undefined') ? 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