Small Business Element

The Small Business Element Program was created to remedy past and current discrimination against SBE firms. The intention is to level the playing field for economically disadvantaged individuals wanting to do business with DOTD on U.S. Department of Transportation federally assisted projects.

The Compliance Programs Section, SBE Certification Unit, certifies businesses capable of performing services and/or products which can be credited toward SBE goals. The certification process ensures that only qualified small business firms that are controlled by one or more economically disadvantaged individuals are certified for this program. The first step in the certification process is to complete and submit a SBE application.

In order to comply with regulatory mandates, our department will accept SBE certifications from the City of Baton Rouge and the New Orleans Regional Transit Authority. In order for SBE certified firms to be included on the DOTD SBE directory, the firm must request in writing and provide documentation to the DOTD SBE Certification Unit verifying their SBE Certification and the items of work the firm is certified in.

Accepting the certification from the City of Baton Rouge and the New Orleans Regional Transit Authority will eliminate the necessity for SBE firms to complete multiple applications as certification decisions are reciprocally accepted with these agencies.

Subject:  Build Your Future: Register for the General Contractors Course

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Are you interested in launching or growing a career in the construction industry? Registration is now open for the General Contractors Seminar, a 10-week course designed to equip small and emerging construction businesses with the technical knowledge essential for success in Louisiana’s commercial sector. Participants will gain valuable insight into key topics including print reading, building calculations, structural loads, safety codes, and more. The LCAI General Contractors Seminar is open to anyone looking to start or currently operating a Louisiana-based construction business.

“The Louisiana Contractors Accreditation Institute has demonstrated the ability to provide necessary and relevant business concepts to those entering the construction industry. The Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors is proud to be partnered with Louisiana Economic Development and committed to its objectives.”

— Brad Hassert, Executive Director, Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors

The course will be offered virtually from February 23 to April 29, with two-hour sessions held on Mondays and Wednesdays from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. All materials and instruction focus on commercial construction. A $350 registration fee covers the full cost of the course. Registration closes February 20, so don’t miss this opportunity to strengthen your construction expertise and business foundation.

Since 2016, more than 1,700 professionals have completed LCAI seminars. The program is offered through a partnership between Louisiana Economic Development, the Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors, and the Louisiana Community and Technical College System.

For more information, visit www.opportunitylouisiana.gov/program/lcai-general-contractors-seminar