The Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) is extending a lifeline to certified small businesses looking to build their expertise in construction and contracting. As reported MnDOT on March 6th, free offerings include a series of classes through the DBE Construction Academy now until June 2025, where businesses can hone skills like budgeting, scheduling and project management. Upcoming sessions cover "Budget management and cost control" on March 13 and "Scheduling and work planning: Managing the project timeline and workflow" on March 27; both sessions are accessible online upon registration.
It's not just the classes, though. MnDOT’s commitment to bolstering small business is multifaceted, as evidenced by their one-to-one business assistance and Micro Grant program, which helps these businesses out-compete on MnDOT contracts. The Micro Grants offer up to $3,500 in financial assistance, provided post training sessions that are slated for March 11, 17, and 26 this year. As with the classes, registration is a must, and the clock's ticking—funds are available through April 30, or until depleted.
Rounding out the support, MnDOT advises there's also the Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) and Workforce Collaborative, which champions diversity among firms and the workforce on highway projects. The DBE committee, as part of the collaborative, will meet on March 11 to work through issues relating to the growth and sustainability of DBE firms. Then there's the Results and Transparency committee, meeting on March 26, with an eye on progress and workforce goals on construction projects. These committee meetings are available online to participants.
Those interested in further details can find comprehensive information on the MnDOT Civil Rights page. Whether it's through education, financial assistance, or advisory committees, MnDOT is looking to lay the ground for a more capable and diverse pool of businesses and contractors to work on Minnesota's roads and bridges. It's an investment in the communities those roads connect, aiming for a more equitable and prosperous business landscape.
