SJB DBE Supportive Services is teaming up with b1 Bank, b1 Foundation, Solid Ground Innovations and Little Dog Marketing to administer the Business Development Program (BDP) on behalf of the LADOTD for selected firms in Region A (Baton Rouge, Lake Charles, Lafayette, Alexandria, Monroe, and Shreveport). The BDP provides tailored training and technical assistance to underutilized DBE firms who are actively seeking highway construction projects and those that exhibit the highest potential to successfully bid on these projects.

The BDP is a two-year business and workforce development program designed to assist in strengthening the business, financial, and technical capacity of DBE firms who have the highest potential to effectively bid, compete, and perform on highway construction projects. In addition, the BDP seeks to assist participating firms in expanding their ability to compete in the marketplace on projects outside of the DBE program. The program provides traditional supportive services to selected DBEs, including:

• One-on-one and small group advising

• Capacity-building coaching

• Hands-on technical assistance 

• Strategic business planning

• Access to resources such as bonding and insurance

In order to participate, DBE firms must apply and be selected. Selected firms must be highly motivated and actively pursuing highway-related work.

Eligible firms must:

• Be a certified LAUCP DBE firm.

• Be based in Region A

• Demonstrate a high interest in doing business with LADOTD.

• Commit to the 2-Year Business Development Program curriculum.

• Commit to one-on-one and small group advising sessions.

• Commit to completing a Strategic Business Development Plan

As a part of the BDP, participants will also have opportunities to network with industry leaders and experts. Sessions will include guest speakers and representatives from the LADOTD, as well as other statewide procurement professionals.