November 30, 2004 - U.S. Secretary of Transportation Norman Y. Mineta today said that the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) will strengthen its commitment to the owners of small minority owned businesses by helping them obtain capital, training and other assistance in order to promote their participation in the U.S. transportation industry.

The Department's Minority Resource Center (MRC) will establish regional centers around the country to assist firms owned by minorities and women in obtaining working capital, technical and procurement assistance when competing for transportation contracts, the Secretary said.

Secretary Mineta added that DOT's Office of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization (OSDBU) will develop an education program for minority owned companies, and that the department will hold a series of regional conferences starting this year to increase access to the department's financial assistance and direct procurement programs.

The Secretary made his announcement at the conclusion of the day-long National Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) Conference held in Washington. The conference, the first of its kind, brought together owners of small and disadvantaged businesses from around the country to learn how they can take advantage of contracting opportunities in the transportation industry.

Following his remarks, the Secretary presented awards to entrepreneurs, government officials and nonprofit organizations for significant contributions to promoting the participation of small and disadvantaged businesses in the nation's transportation industry. Receiving awards were 15 entrepreneurs from small and disadvantaged businesses, four DOT employees, six state and local officials, and one prime contractor.

"Secretary Mineta's support sends the message that firms owned by minorities and women are integral to DOT's success," said Sean M. Moss, director of OSDBU and MRC. "He is one of the strongest advocates of the DBE program."

OSDBU coordinates the Department's activities on behalf of small businesses owned and controlled by disadvantaged persons. OSDBU also administers the MRC, which provides advocacy, outreach and financial services for these businesses.

On the Web:
 

http://osdbuweb.dot.gov/