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Business Enterprise Hub

Provides resources and support for local and small businesses, with help in contract compliance, training, and access to growth opportunities.

DRIVE Policy Overview

The Developing Regional Inclusive Vendor Enterprises (DRIVE) Policy is the City of Dallas's framework for promoting equitable participation of small, local businesses in City contracting. DRIVE reflects the City's commitment to inclusive economic growth across all procurement categories. The policy applies to City contracts over $100,000 across goods, construction, architecture & engineering, professional services, and general services — with a focus on creating meaningful subcontracting opportunities for certified Small Business Enterprises (SBEs). Participation goals are informed by a Market Utilization Study and set by contract category, ranging from 30% to 38% SBE involvement depending on the type of work. For prime contractors, DRIVE establishes clear expectations around good faith efforts, subcontractor reporting, and prompt payment. For small business owners, it opens the door to a broader range of City contracts, backed by capacity-building programs like the First Look Program, the Dallas Accelerator Program, and access to bonding and technical assistance.

Effective Date: March 1, 2026

Download DRIVE Policy (PDF)

Forms

Preview the forms used in the DRIVE Program below. These documents are provided for reference only.

Please Note: Detailed requirements, instructions, and submission guidelines are included in the official solicitation documents. Always refer to the solicitation for complete and binding information.

Eligibility Requirements

To participate in the DRIVE Program, your business must meet all four eligibility requirements outlined in the DRIVE Policy

 

Size Standard

Meet SBA Size Limits
Your firm must meet the U.S. Small Business Administration size standards for your industry's NAICS code.

Local Presence

Be Based in the DFW Area
Your firm's principal office must be physically located within the Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA).

Independence

Be Independently Owned
Your firm must be independently owned and operated — not a subsidiary or affiliate of a larger company in a way that would artificially qualify the business.

Commercially Useful Function

Perform Real Work
Your firm must perform a genuine, distinct role on the contract — not act as a pass-through, broker, or conduit solely to receive SBE credit.

Certifying Agencies

To count toward the SBE goal, vendors must hold SBE certification from at least one of the following agencies:

Ready to apply? Visit each agency's certification page directly:

Small Business Resources

The Business Enterprise Hub connects local businesses with training programs, community partnerships, and City economic development resources to help them grow and compete for City contracts.

Office of Economic Development

The City of Dallas Office of Economic Development offers has a variety of funding programs to assist small businesses in Dallas.

Visit Office of Economic Development

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