Department of Community
Development
Business Development and Services Unit
P. O. Box 31109
1237 Murphy St., Room 210
Shreveport, LA 71130
(318) 673-7500
THE OFFICE OF DISADVANTAGED BUSINESS ENTERPRISE
The office of Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) was created to manage,
monitor and administer federal, state and local programs designed or intended to develop
and/or expand opportunities for historically disadvantaged business enterprises. The
designation includes minorities, females, and other business owners determined to be
socially and economically disadvantaged.
CERTIFICATION
The DBE Office processes certification of all socially and economically
disadvantaged business enterprises for all departments of the City of Shreveport and other
local public entities having that need.
Business entities organized for profit and performing a commercial purpose are
eligible for certification. The business must be at least 51 percent owned, controlled and
operated on a daily basis by qualified individuals determined to be disadvantaged.
MONITORING
As part of the Department of Community Development, the DBE Office has been
mandated by the department to perform and monitor identified functions that will enhance
City DBE economic participation. In addition ti City mandates, the DBE Office employs the
requirements and measurements of the DBE programs as outlined in the federal
regulations relative to funding sources received by the City. The primary regulations and
sources of funds are as follows:
24 CFR Section 85.36
(CDBG funded contracts)
40 CFR Section 35.6580
(EPA funded contracts)
49 CFR Section 23
(FAA & UMTA funded contracts)
Occasionally, businesses are in need of assistance. The DBE Office is here to
assist with the necessary procedures for doing business with other City departments. The
office staff conducts meetings and addresses concerns relative to the City’s DBE activities.
The DBE Office provides information to certified clients regarding the City’s construction
projects and procurement opportuniti