Overview
In 1978, the Maryland General Assembly enacted legislation creating the Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) Program to ensure that socially and economically disadvantaged small business owners are included in the state’s procurement and contracting opportunities. Current regulations set the MBE Program's statewide aspirational goal at 29% across 70 participating agencies and departments.
Maryland’s MBE Program is well-recognized as a national model for minority inclusion. Administration of the MBE Program lies with the Governor’s Office of Small, Minority & Women Business Affairs. Internally, we work with the participating agencies and departments on implementation, best practices, and reporting. Externally we work with small businesses interested in performing on state-funded contracts.
Our T.I.P.S. Small Business Webinar Series is a carefully curated training program designed to help small, minority, women, and veteran-owned firms compete with greater confidence in the state contracting arena. Two classes are offered every month and there is no cost to participants. Just register in advance to receive the participation link.
Only the work of certified MBEs can be counted toward an established contract goal. MBE certification is performed and managed by the Office of Minority Business Enterprise. This unit is housed within the Maryland Department of Transportation and certifies businesses for a variety of federal socioeconomic and small business programs in addition to the state's MBE Program. This unit hosts a monthly application assistance workshop to prepare small businesses that are beginning the application process. The Federal DBE/ACDBE program requirements are separate from Maryland's MBE Program. Applicants are not required to seek both federal and state certifications.
Each participating agency and department staffs an MBE Liaison whose role includes serving as an advocate for MBEs actively working on contracts within that agency. Firms named to perform as an MBE are encouraged to connect with the liaison at the onset of the contract.
An MBE Fraud Hotline exists for the purpose of reporting potential violations
against a certified MBE. A call to the hotline will trigger an investigation.
The more details you provide, the better chance we have of determining
whether fraud has been committed. Callers may remain anonymous.
If you suspect fraud against an MBE, call 410-697-9611.
