(a) The department will meet as much of its overall
goal as feasible by using race-neutral means of facilitating DBE participation.
(b) Race-neutral means include:
(1) arranging solicitations, times for the presentation
of bids, quantities, specifications, and delivery schedules in ways
that facilitate DBE and other small business participation;
(2) providing assistance to DBEs and other small businesses
in overcoming limitations such as the inability to obtain bonding
or financing;
(3) providing technical assistance and other services
to DBEs and other small businesses;
(4) carrying out information and communications programs
on contracting procedures and specific contract opportunities to ensure
the inclusion of DBEs and other small businesses;
(5) implementing a supportive services program to develop
and improve immediate and long-term business management, record keeping,
and financial and accounting capability for DBEs and other small businesses;
(6) providing services to help DBEs, and other small
businesses, improve long-term development, increase opportunities
to participate in a variety of kinds of work, handle increasingly
significant projects, and achieve eventual self-sufficiency;
(7) establishing a program to assist new, start-up
firms, particularly in fields in which DBE participation has historically
been low;
(8) ensuring distribution of the DBE directory to the
widest feasible number of potential contractors; and
(9) assisting DBEs and other small businesses in developing
their capability to use emerging technology and conduct business through
electronic media.
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