OCALA, Fla. (May 6, 2024) – The City of Ocala’s Procurement and Contracting Department will host a free webinar Friday, May 10, 2 p.m. for understanding the role that Diverse Business Enterprises (DBE) play in contracting opportunities funded by the Federal Transit Administration (FTA), Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), and Federal Highway Administration (FHWA).  A diverse business enterprise is defined as a business that is at least 51% owned by one or more minorities or women.

The webinar will provide DBEs the resources and tools needed to competitively bid on future business opportunities and learn more about the City’s FTA DBE Goals for Fiscal Years 2024-26. Participants will also learn about other contracting opportunities for DBEs and get connected with prime contractors willing to use DBEs in their projects.

Currently, there are 18 FTA assisted contracting opportunities slated for Fiscal Years 2024-26, totaling just under $12 million in expenditures. Establishing a DBE Program ensures that disadvantaged businesses have equal opportunities to participate in the city’s transportation projects.

In addition to the webinar, the DBE Program and Goals are available for public comment now through Sunday, May 19. An assessment survey is available online that will help identify strategies to increase DBE participation in these programs, including roles such as consultants, contractors, service providers and suppliers in the city’s contracting process.

For more information about the City’s FTA DBE Program and to register for the free webinar, click here, or visit www.ocalafl.gov/ftadbegoal.