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Prime contractors are a vital element of our DBE Program. Our partnership with prime contractors encourages successful implementation of DBE program requirements. This page is designed to provide our prime contractor partners with all of the information necessary to successfully comply with program requirements.
Responsibilities of Prime Contractors
Pre-Award Good Faith Effort (GFE)
When bidding on a contract with a DBE goal, you are required to demonstrate a good faith effort to meet the goal. This may be accomplished by submitting a.) a good faith effort form OR B.) the signed subcontracts for each DBE firm you intend to utilize on the contract for credit.
Should you choose to submit the GFE form with your bid package, you are required to submit the corresponding signed subcontracts within ten (10) days of being notified as the apparent lowest bidder.
Report Changes
As a prime contractor, you are required to notify the DBE office immediately of any changes on a project which impacts or has the potential to impact DBE goal attainment. Examples include but aren’t limited to changes to scope of work subcontracted to a DBE (road closure vs. MOT), lack of DBE availability, and performance issues. The DBE office will work closely with you and the project team to develop a plan to address the specific issue at hand.
Contact a DBE Specialist or refer to the Program Plan for advice pertaining to the changes.
Ensure CUF Performance
One of the most important requirements of incorporating DBE participation on federally assisted projects with a DBE goal is the concept of Commercially Useful Function (CUF). DelDOT is required to verify each DBE is performing a CUF before credit may be attributed.
Learn more about CUF requirements.
Monitor DBE Goal Progress
Every prime contractor has access to their contracts through our B2G Compliance system online. Although the DBE Specialists are monitoring their assigned projects for compliance and attainment, it is your responsibility as the prime contractor to monitor progress toward the goal as well. Monitoring your projects is an easy way to get address potential issues early and enables all parties to discuss the matter before the end of a project. In the event of a predicted shortfall, our team can assist you in making a good faith effort to increase participation.
Learn more about how to make a Good Faith Effort.
Documents and Publications
- DBE Program Plan
- Goal Setting Methodology
- Good Faith Effort for Pre-Award Form
- Regular Dealer Verification Form
- Trucking Worksheet - Coming Soon
