It is COG's policy that Disadvantaged Business Enterprises (DBEs), as defined in 49 CFR Part 26, shall have the maximum opportunity to participate in the performance of contracts for COG, and specifically those financed in whole or in part with federal funds under grants, contracts, or cooperative agreements. COG's policy is to seek out and include DBEs in the procurement process for all goods and services to the maximum practicable extent. Accordingly, COG encourages DBEs to compete for COG contracts and subcontracts, and encourages joint ventures between DBE and non-DBE firms who compete for COG contracts and subcontracts.
On November 9, 2021, COG hosted a Triennial Disadvantaged Business Enterprise Goals Revision session to provide outreach and input for the Triennial DBE Goal Setting update. Materials and a recording are available online.
On November 8, 2022, COG received a letter of concurrence from the Federal Transit Administration.
The Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments is committed in our efforts to expand contracting opportunities for small, minority and woman-owned businesses. Our DBE Program Office provides technical assistance, training, and other resources for vendors looking to do business with us. Contact us at purchasing@mwcog.org. In accordance with the DBE regulations codified at 49 Code of Federal Regulations Part 26 (49 CFR, Part 26), the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments developed its DBE goal methodology. The overall DBE goal established for Federal Fiscal Years 2021 through 2024 is 36.5 percent.
COG’s Overall Disadvantaged Business Enterprise Goal Setting Methodology for Federal Fiscal Years (FFYs) 2021-2024 is posted online.