Dear Fellow Small Business Owner,
For nearly four decades, the Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) program has been a lifeline for women-owned small businesses like ours. It was created to remedy discrimination in federal transportation contracting and remains one of the few tools to help ensure that qualified small businesses have a fair shot to compete. Thanks to the DBE program, more than 50,000 businesses employ over half a million Americans—strengthening local economies, building critical infrastructure, and proving what we can achieve when given a more level playing field.
But today, the DBE program is at risk. Unless Congress reauthorizes it through the 2026 Highway Bill, thousands of businesses could lose access to the contracts and networks they rely on. Without this program, the opportunities we have fought so hard to secure will disappear, leaving entire communities behind.
We need to stand together to protect what we have built. I’m asking you to:
- Contact your members of Congress and urge them to reauthorize the DBE program. Share your story—lawmakers need to hear what this program means for your business, your employees, and your community.
- Encourage your partners and employees to speak out—every voice helps make our case stronger.
- Stay connected with Women First for updates and advocacy opportunities in the months ahead.
Together, we can help ensure that the DBE program continues to remedy discrimination, open doors, and drive success for small businesses nationwide.
Thank you for your leadership and commitment to this fight.
Sincerely,
Joann Payne
President, Women First