Office of Business Opportunity
Disadvantaged Business Enterprise Certification
The City of Houston is a member of the Texas Unified Certification Program (TUCP). The TUCP certifies Disadvantaged Business Enterprises for participation in Department of Transportation federal contracting projects across the State of Texas in compliance with Code of Federal Regulations (49 CFR 26 and 23).
Response to the USDOT IFR
On October 3, 2025, the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) published an Interim Final Rule (IFR) that immediately changed the federal Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) and Airport Concession Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (ACDBE) programs. This IFR removes the race- and sex-based presumptions of disadvantage and requires all firms to demonstrate individualized social and economic disadvantage.
The City of Houston is fully reviewing this new rule and its impact on our federal contracting efforts. We have paused the acceptance of new DBE/ACDBE applications and recertifications to ensure we are in compliance. We are committed to working closely with our federal partners to navigate these changes and will provide timely updates to our certified firms regarding the new reevaluation and certification process.
Commitment to Access and Inclusion
The OBO is aware that these programmatic changes and legal challenges at the state and federal levels can cause uncertainty. We want to be clear: the City of Houston remains steadfast in its commitment to fostering an inclusive and equitable business environment.
- We believe in opportunities for all. The City will continue to champion access and inclusion for all small business owners, ensuring every firm has a fair shot at competing for municipal contracts.
- We will provide support and resources. We are expanding our efforts to assist all small businesses, regardless of certification status, through capacity-building, education, and mentorship.
- We will stay connected. OBO will host a series of workshops and listening sessions to keep our business community informed of the evolving legal landscape and our path forward.
I encourage all our stakeholders to remain engaged and visit the OBO website for the latest updates. The Office of Business Opportunity is here to serve you, and we will continue our vital work of strengthening Houston's small business ecosystem for the benefit of all.
Contact: Brandon Jones, Brandon.Jones2@houstontx.gov, 832-627-3875
Support and Contact Information
For questions or additional guidance, please contact the OBO Certification Hotline at (832) 393-0600 (press option 1).
City of Houston
Office of Business Opportunity
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611 Walker Street, Seventh Floor
Houston, TX 77002
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