| State contracting is worthwhile business. The Commonwealth's infinite needs and steady income always insure new opportunities. But for small businesses, these opportunities often require more extensive resources and experience than they can deliver. The Disadvantaged Business Program (DB) addresses the problem. Part of the Request For Proposal (RFP) procurement process, the DB program promotes contracting and subcontracting opportunities to eligible businesses. |
| The Disadvantaged Business Program |
Program Overview
Learn about the DB Program and its requirements. |
| Finding Small Disadvantaged Businesses |
Instructions for Finding Disadvantaged Businesses
Although the DB Program is not a certification program, and the Bureau of Minority & Women Business Opportunities (BMWBO) does not maintain a list of qualified companies, vendors can still find Small Disadvantaged Businesses using two online databases. |
| Request for Proposal |
Disadvantaged Business Language
Every Request for Proposal (RFP) that does not involve the use of federal funds includes a set version of the DB language. |
Basic RFP & IT/ITQ |
| Best Value RFP |
| ESCO RFP |
| Real Estate or Commonwealth Leasing Solicitation for Proposal (SFP) |
DB/EZ Proposal Submittal Guide
A checklist of information and documentation required when submitting Disadvantaged Business or Enterprise Zone Small Business proposals. |
| PA Designated Enterprise Zone Program (EZ) |
Enterprise Zone Contact List
As with DBs, the Commonwealth also encourages small business located within PA Designated Enterprise Zones to participate in state. The criteria are similar to those for DB and are detailed in the DB language. Find out if you are located within an EZ. |
