Technical Assistance Our Business Development Specialists work to increase the quality and quantity of entrepreneurs available to participate in the District's Set-Aside program under DC Law 12-268. The Department of Small and Local Business Development technical assistance program is designed for all new and existing Certified Business Enterprises (CBEs) applicants. The technical assistance program helps applicants reduce processing errors and improve application response time. Start-up companies are highly encouraged to use the technical assistance program. Please call (202) 727-3900 for more information on technical assistance.