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Q: What is the mission of the Department of Small and Local Business Development (DSLBD)?
The Department of Small and Local Business Development is a full-service, cabinet level agency charged with fostering the economic growth, development, and retention of District-based businesses. 
Q: How does DSLBD fulfill its mission?
DSLBD certifies small and local businesses through its CBE program, ensures that CBE’s get preference when legally mandated via agency and public/private contract compliance, advocates for small and local businesses, provides counseling to small businesses, promotes supportive legislation, and manages commercial revitalization efforts in the city’s neighborhoods.
Q. Does DSLBD award grants?
No. Check with the Small Business Administration for information on getting small business grants.
Q: What is the purpose of the CBE program?
The District of Columbia CBE program develops contract and procurement preference opportunities for District-based businesses. The District's discretionary spending can be directed to District businesses that support and contribute directly to job creation and the tax base. These efforts result in a much stronger local economy.
Q: Why should a business apply for CBE certification?
Q: What benefits do I get as CBE?
CBE certification gives local businesses preference to compete in contract and procurement opportunities. Preferences vary from 35 to 50 percent CBE participation. You may obtain preferences in the form of 2 to 12 points (maximum) on your response to Request for Proposals (RFPs) and/or a 2 to 12 percent reduction (maximum) on your response to bids.
Q: Will all applicants be accepted into the CBE program?
No. Only bona-fide District businesses that meet the certification requirements will be accepted into the CBE program.
Q: If my company is not accepted into the CBE program, will I still be able to bid on District contracts and procurement opportunities?
Yes. All companies are welcome to compete in the District's contract and procurement process. Any non-CBE certified business can respond to the Office of Contracting and Procurement with bid and contract solicitations. However, keep in mind that the CBE program goal is to provide increased opportunities to CBE-certified firms through preference programs. If your company obtains an award from the District, it may be required to obtain 35 to 50 percent participation by certain CBE certified businesses as subcontractors.
Q: Can my company partner with another company to increase our competitiveness in the bidding process?
Q: Who decides if my application is approved?
The Department of Small and Local Business Development approves your application.
Q: How long does the overall certification approval take?
As long as your application is complete, a decision regarding your certification status will be made within 45 business days.
Q: Do you accept incomplete applications?
No. DSLBD does not process incomplete applications. Please do not apply until you have collected and noted all the proper information.
Q: Is my business subject to on-site inspections?
Yes. The business locations of all applicants for CBE certification are subject to on-site inspections.
Q: What other opportunities besides CBE certification does DSLBD offer District-based business owners?
DSLBD alerts the public and CBE’s of business opportunities, helps with post-certification counseling and advocates for small business in the city.
Please Note:
This Frequently Asked Questions page is designed to assist the applicant by listing some of the most commonly addressed issues. This page is not intended, by accident or otherwise, to supersede any viable and/or current legislation authorized by the District of Columbia City Council.
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