METRO’s Small Business Enterprise (SBE) program operates in a race and gender-neutral manner and is open to participation without regard to race, color, sex, religion, national or ethnic origin, age, or disability.
METRO has an aspirational annual goal of35% small business participation. METRO encourages all small business owners to apply for METRO SBE certification and participate in METRO procurement opportunities.
Benefits of becoming a METRO-certified SBE:
Increased opportunities for visibility for METRO contracting
Certification is available at no cost and valid for three (3) years
Quick processing of certifications in 30 days
Free business development training
Certification accepted by Port Houston, Houston Community College, Fort Bend ISD, and Houston First
Five-day Prompt Payment Policy in effect for contracts with small business goals
SBE reciprocity for Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) certified firms
Eligibility to participate in METRO training, events, and networking opportunities
Fast track certification with Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Houston Minority Supplier Development Council (HMSDC)
View the SBE program for more information about the application process for becoming certified and how to contact us for assistance.
METRO’s Disadvantaged Business Enterprise Program
As required by Section 49 Code of Federal Regulations Part 26, the Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County (METRO) has determined a proposed overall goal of16% for the participation of Disadvantaged Business Enterprises (DBEs) in its FY23-FY25 contracts which are funded by the U.S. Department of Transportation.
The City of Houston Office of Business Opportunity (OBO) is the DBE certifying entity for Houston, Texas.
METRO’s Disability Owned Business Enterprise Program
METRO’s Disability Owned Business Enterprise (DOBE) Program helps ensure disability-owned firms have equal access to opportunities in procurement and contracting at METRO.
To be classified as a certified Disability Owned Business, your business should meet the following qualifications:
Is at least 51% owned, operated, managed, and controlled by individuals with a disability (as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act)
Is at least 51% owned, operated, managed, and controlled by either a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident
Exercises independence from any other business enterprise
Principal place of business (headquarters) in the United States
Formed as a legal entity in the United States
METRO recognizes certifications from external certifying entities. METRO will not perform certifications.
METRO’s Veteran Owned Business Enterprise (VOBE) Program helps ensure veteran-owned firms have equal access to opportunities in procurement and contracting at METRO.
To be classified as a certified Veteran Owned Business, your business should meet the following qualifications:
Is a sole proprietorship, partnership, or corporation at least 51% owned, operated, and controlled by an individual who served in the United States active military, naval, or air service; who was discharged or released under conditions other than dishonorable; and who has at least 51% ownership in the applicant firm
Is at least 51% owned, operated, and controlled by either a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident
Exercises independence from any other business enterprise
Principal place of business (headquarters) in the United States
Formed as a legal entity in the United States
METRO recognizes certifications from external certifying entities. METRO will not perform certifications. For more information, view the program or email us at [email protected].
