SECTION 9.220. Use of Race-neutral Means

(a) The department will meet as much of its overall goal as feasible by using race-neutral means of facilitating DBE participation.

(b) Race-neutral means include:

(1) arranging solicitations, times for the presentation of bids, quantities, specifications, and delivery schedules in ways that facilitate DBE and other small business participation;

(2) providing assistance to DBEs and other small businesses in overcoming limitations such as the inability to obtain bonding or financing;

(3) providing technical assistance and other services to DBEs and other small businesses;

(4) carrying out information and communications programs on contracting procedures and specific contract opportunities to ensure the inclusion of DBEs and other small businesses;

(5) implementing a supportive services program to develop and improve immediate and long-term business management, record keeping, and financial and accounting capability for DBEs and other small businesses;

(6) providing services to help DBEs, and other small businesses, improve long-term development, increase opportunities to participate in a variety of kinds of work, handle increasingly significant projects, and achieve eventual self-sufficiency;

(7) establishing a program to assist new, start-up firms, particularly in fields in which DBE participation has historically been low;

(8) ensuring distribution of the DBE directory to the widest feasible number of potential contractors; and

(9) assisting DBEs and other small businesses in developing their capability to use emerging technology and conduct business through electronic media.

Source Note: The provisions of this §9.220 adopted to be effective September 1, 2012, 37 TexReg 5320