Sep 2023
De Lune Corp, a multi-tier organization operating across diverse verticals, announced it has been certified as a Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) by the Virginia Department of Small Business and Supplier Diversity. DBE certification number 812034 was granted to De Lune Corp on July 31, 2023.
DBE certification is a federal recognition (49 CFR Part 26), signifying that De Lune Corp meets the stringent eligibility criteria outlined by the U.S. Department of Transportation's DBE Program. This recognition is a testament to De Lune Corp.'s commitment to diversity, inclusivity, and excellence in its operations. To qualify as a DBE, an organization must be a small business, with at least 51% ownership by minorities, women, and/or socially and economically disadvantaged adults, and have its day-to-day operations controlled by women or minorities.
“We are thrilled to have been certified as a Disadvantaged Business Enterprise,” said De Lune Corp President Gaddafi Ismail. “This certification will open doors to United States Department of Transportation (USDOT) assisted contracts and opportunities on federally funded projects with DBE participation goals,” he added.
De Lune Corp’s DBE certification status delivers a further competitive edge to the fast-growing organization, which also possesses ISO, SWaM, and MBE certification and is part of the brand-new GSA MAS 8(a) Pool Initiative. It also fosters collaboration within the business community as it encourages prime contractors to join hands with De Lune Corp to fulfill their contracts with DBE participation goals.
Established by the USDOT, the DBE Program aims to create a level playing field for firms owned by minorities, women, and socially and economically disadvantaged individuals. By achieving this certification, De Lune Corp aligns with and supports the program's objectives which include ensuring nondiscrimination in the award and administration of Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) assisted contracts, removing barriers to participation, and assisting in the development of firms that can compete successfully in the marketplace.
As part of this certification, De Lune Corp gains access to supportive services provided by the Business Opportunity and Workforce Development (BOWD) Center. These services are designed to strengthen infrastructure, increase capacity and profitability, and help the company move to the next level.
Achieving DBE certification marks another significant milestone in the company’s journey. The increased exposure and opportunity to compete in the federal marketplace combined by the support services provided will further help position De Lue Corp for accelerated growth and success in the highly competitive business landscape.
About De Lune Corp
De Lune Corp is a multi-tier organization with diverse interests, ranging from agricultural commodities and energy to healthcare administration services and IT, with specialties in supply chain efficiency and tailored logistics.
About DBE
The Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) Program is a U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) program that was established to ensure that firms owned by minorities, women, and other socially and economically disadvantaged persons have an equal opportunity to participate in federally assisted contracts. Applicants must meet all eligibility criteria under 49 CFR Part 26 to qualify and certification, once received, must be renewed annually.
About SBSD
The Virginia Department of Small Business and Supplier Diversity (SBSD) is the state agency dedicated to enhancing the participation of small, women- and minority-owned businesses in Virginia in the state’s procurement opportunities. SBSD is responsible for the administration of both the SWaM (Small, Women- and Minority-owned) and DBE certification programs.