Advancing DBE Program Restoration for Local Agencies
WORKSHOP: November 18, 2026, 1:30PM - 3:30PM PT
As Caltrans prepares to restore the Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) program, join the Local Assistance Office of Local Civil Compliance for an informative and interactive workshop designed to help our local partners prepare for the transition.
During this free 2-hour online presentation, DBE experts will share key changes to the recently restored program, including what you can expect moving forward and important next steps for implementation. Participants will also be given an opportunity to ask questions, share considerations, and connect with others as California prepares for the return of the DBE program.
Whether you're looking to understand what’s changing, how those changes might impact your organization, or what you need to do to prepare, this workshop offers practical information and an opportunity to get your questions answered.
Caltrans Presenters:
- Mark Samuelson, Deputy Chief, Division of Local Assistance
- Pauline Valenzuela, Chief, Office of Local Civil Compliance
- Tracy Coan, DBE Liaison, Office of Local Civil Compliance
- Jesus Garcia, DBE Liaison, Office of Local Civil Compliance
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About the DBE Program
USDOT's Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) program was established by Congress to ensure nondiscrimination in the award and administration of DOT-assisted contracts, to help remove barriers of participation for DBEs, and to assist the development of firms that can compete successfully in the marketplace outside of the DBE program.
DBE was reauthorized by Congress in November 2021 as part of the Infrastructure Investment & Jobs Act (IIJA), then suspended in October 2025 under Executive Order to realign it's priorities to that of the current Administration.
