Colorado Emerging Small Business (ESB)
CDOT certification to help small firms compete for transportation work. [Colorado ESB program]
Colorado Department of Transportation. Colorado program. Official program information
Sources reviewed .
Who qualifies
Independent for-profit businesses in good standing with Colorado’s Secretary of State that provide work relevant to CDOT contracts. [Colorado ESB guidance]
- Professional services, research or construction must relate to CDOT’s transportation work. [Colorado ESB guidance]
- Including affiliates, meet the SBA size standard for the primary industry. CDOT assigns an ESB level according to receipts; the largest qualifying level is called SBE. [Colorado ESB guidance]
Cost
A certification fee is not stated in the official sources reviewed. Ask the agency before applying. [Colorado ESB guidance]
Processing time
CDOT’s stated goal is an eligibility decision within 90 days after the application is complete. [Colorado ESB application process]
What it unlocks
- Mentor-protégé opportunities, occasional ESB-restricted contracts and consultant-contract incentive points. [Colorado ESB program]
How to apply
- Review eligibility and the recommended ESB orientation. [Colorado ESB guidance] Read ESB requirements.
- Submit through CDOT’s Business Management System and respond to any requests for missing records. [Colorado ESB application process] Read application instructions.