DBE Program and Recent Recertification Updates

Event description

Per the DBE Interim Final Rule published on October 3, 2025, all Wisconsin-based DBE and Airport Concession Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (ACDBE) firms previously certified using race- or sex-based presumptions of social and economic disadvantage must be reevaluated for recertification by the United Certification Program (UCP). All applicants must now prove social and economic disadvantage on an individual, case-by-case basis, rather than relying on race or sex as a presumption. On Monday, February 16, 2026, the Wisconsin UCP will begin accepting DBE and ACDBE Recertification applications.

The Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) certification can open important doors for small businesses by creating opportunities to work with the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) and other state and local government entities including Dane County, City of Madison and Milwaukee County. This session will provide training on the value of the DBE program and how to submit your recertification application.

Schedule:

9:00 – 10:00 AM — Presentation on Disadvantaged Business Certification/Recertification Updates

10:30 AM – NOON — Individual assistance

Session will be hosted and presented by WPI Staff:

Truphosa Mwololo, Manager, Small Business Programs, Wisconsin Procurement Institute – WI APEX Accelerator