DBEs are for-profit small businesses that have socially and economically disadvantaged individuals own at least a 51% interest and also control management and daily business operations. African Americans, Hispanics, Native Americans, Asian-Pacific and Subcontinent Asian Americans, and women are presumed to be socially and economically disadvantaged (Note, other individuals can also qualify as socially and economically disadvantaged. Such is determined on a case-by-case basis).
To participate in a DBE program, a small business owned, operated and controlled by socially and economically disadvantaged individuals must receive DBE certification from the applicable state. In addition, the 51% owner must have a personal net worth that does not exceed $750,000. Also the business must meet SBA size criteria and have average annual gross receipts not to exceed $22.41 million (Note, size limits for the airport concessions DBE program are currently higher).