Doing Business with CATS as a DBE/CBI-SBE

In accordance with Interim Final Rule, dated October 3, 2025, the City of Charlotte is currently prohibited from assigning DBE contract goals on projects until further notice.

DBE - Disadvantage Business Enterprise Program (Federal)

As a recipient of Federal funding from the US-Department of Transportation, the City of Charlotte/ Charlotte Area Transit System (CATS) is required to administer a Disadvantaged Business (DBE) Program. The Disadvantaged Business Enterprise Program, as described in CFR 49 Part 26, offers certified DBEs equal opportunity to compete for federally funded contracts.

Documents

DBE Policy Statement(PDF, 50KB)

City of Charlotte’s DBE Program(PDF, 3MB)

Ciudad de Charlotte Programa DBE(PDF, 4MB)

Charlotte Business Inclusion (CBI) - Small Business Enterprise Program (Local)

As a recipient of local revenue, the City of Charlotte/ Charlotte Area Transit System (CATS) seeks to enhance competition in City contracting and promote economic growth and development in the Charlotte Combined Statistical Area (CSA) by fostering the inclusion of locally present CBI program Certified Small Business Enterprises. We are working with local certified businesses to reinvest back into our own economy. For more information, see the CBI Page.

CATS DBE/CBI-SBE Programs

Provide certified DBEs/CBI-SBEs with increased notification of contracting opportunities
Perform periodic monitoring & reporting of all Federally-and Locally funded CATS projects.
CBI-SBE vendor lists appear on the City's Vendor Lists page

Who qualifies for certification?

DBE Certification/Re-Certification Applications should be directed to The North Carolina Department of Transportation: Online Certification Application Portal

Connect NCDOT General Information on NCDOT Certifications

Local SBE Certification/Re-Certification Applications should be directed to the Charlotte Business Inclusion Program.