DBE Supportive Services

Three people talking on construction site

While DBE certification increases your visibility to prime contractors, procurement officers, and the broader business community, certified firms must still actively market their products and services to find opportunities. That’s where support comes in.

To assist certified Disadvantaged Business Enterprises (DBEs), the Iowa Department of Transportation Civil Rights Bureau has partnered with Iowa State University CIRAS to provide a dedicated DBE Support Services Program Manager, Mary Zimmerman.

Mary offers personalized, no-cost assistance to help DBEs meet their unique goals and strengthen their competitive edge. Services include:

  • Training, Matchmaking, and Networking Events
  • Customized Bid Matching – Tailored opportunities that align with your capabilities
  • Marketing & Market Research
  • Accounting Guidance
  • Bid Preparation & Submission Support
  • Customer Service & Relationship Building
    Bonding Information

Connect with Mary Zimmerman – DBE Support Services Program Manager

Mary provides no-cost, one-on-one assistance to help your business grow and succeed. She’ll take the time to get to know your company, understand your goals, and work with you to find the right resources and solutions tailored to your needs.

Whether you’re navigating certification, pursuing contracts, or looking to strengthen your business, Mary is here to help.

Success as a DBE requires:  Persistence. Patience. Perseverance.

Mary is ready to support you every step of the way. 

Help Navigating Other Procurement Preference Programs:

Mary can also help you identify and connect you with APEX Accelerators to pursue other certifications,

Ciras Apex Accelerator

 including:

Federal Programs:

  • Small Disadvantaged Business
  • HUBZone Program
  • Veteran-Owned Small Business (VOSB)
  • Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB)
  • Women-Owned Small Business (WOSB)
  • 8(a) Business Development Program

State Programs:

  • Targeted Small Business (TSB)
  • Iowa DOT Small Business Development Contracts

 

More Opportunities with the Iowa DOT

Beyond contracts through the Iowa DOT Contracts Bureau, there are additional opportunities within the DOT Purchasing Section—a completely separate bidding process that does not require DBE participation, but still offers valuable prospects. The Purchasing Section procures millions of dollars in goods and services annually.

Mary can help you:

  •  Register as a vendor
  • Connect with the right purchasing agent
  • Find relevant opportunities
  • Navigate the bidding process

Iowa DOT ensures nondiscrimination and equal employment in all programs and activities in accordance with Title VI and Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and other nondiscrimination statutes. If you need more information or special assistance for persons with disabilities or limited English proficiency, contact Iowa DOT Civil Rights at 515-239-1111 or by email at civil.rights@iowadot.us.