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EPA Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) Program

The Metropolitan Council participates in the U.S. EPA DBE program federally funded environmental services-related projects.

The Metropolitan Council supports the planning and development of the region's environmental services infrastructure (wastewater treatment operations) through its use of a revolving loan fund established by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) through the Minnesota Public Facilities Authority (PFA). All Municipalities that receive this loan funding must comply with federal requirements concerning utilization of Disadvantaged Business Enterprises (DBE). These requirements are designed to encourage loan recipients and prime contractors to utilize DBEs whenever procurement opportunities occur.

This program confirms the Metropolitan Council's commitment to utilize businesses owned and controlled by socially and economically disadvantaged individuals in its procurement and contracting efforts.

Designated DBE, MBE and WBEs

The EPA DBE Program categorizes DBEs as either Women Business Enterprise (WBE) or Minority Business Enterprise (MBE). There are separate fair share goals on EPA funded projects for both WBE and MBE.

All WBE and MBE firms must be:

1. A WBE or MBE DBE that is listed on the MnUCP / DBE directory
2. A WBE or MBE that is certified by the United States Environmental Protection Agency as a DBE
3. A WBE or MBE that is certified by the federal Small Business Administration as a DBE

Current fair share targets (goals):

11.5% WBE and 3.5% MBE

For more information on the EPA DBE program at the Council, please contact the Council's Office of Diversity at 651-602-1426.