TPA Seeks Input on Disadvantaged Business Enterprise Participation Goal for 2014-16

(October 4, 2013) - Tampa International Airport is seeking the public’s input on a proposal that could impact future opportunities for woman- and minority-owned small businesses in the Tampa Bay area.

The Hillsborough County Aviation Authority has proposed an overall goal of 12.4 percent for Disadvantaged Business Enterprise participation in federally funded construction projects for the next three years. The goal is intended to guarantee opportunities for minority and women participation in such projects.

Those interested in learning more about DBE participation and the methods used to set goals for DBE participation for fiscal years 2014-2016 are invited to attend an informational meeting Oct. 9 from 5 to 6:30 p.m. in the Authority Board Room located in the main terminal’s third-level Blue side.

“The meeting is aimed at helping businesses and members of the community understand the overall DBE goal and how we set that goal, as well as let us know what they see as barriers to participation,” said Cheryl Hawkins, the Authority’s DBE Program Manager.

Hillsborough County Aviation Authority staff will discuss the upcoming federally funded projects and explain the goal-setting process. Public input will help the Authority determine the final overall DBE goal to submit to the Federal Aviation Administration.

For more information, call the airport’s DBE Office at (813) 554-1467.