The Iowa Department of Transportation (Iowa DOT) has issued its proposed Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) participation goal for Federal Transit Administration (FTA)-assisted contracts for fiscal years 2026-2028. 

Under the official announcement, Iowa DOT suggests a DBE goal of 3.23%, that is to be met primarily through race-neutral methods like outreach, training, and technical assistance programs. The figure is based on projected contracting opportunities and DBE availability for federally aided transit projects over the three years.

According to DBE GoodFaith, Iowa DOT set the new target after examining existing participation rates, project projections, and availability of qualified DBE firms in the market. The agency is now taking public input and welcomes comments from stakeholders and small business owners. This new proposal would come after Iowa DOT's earlier 2023–2025 goal of 5.75%, which is set to lapse at the end of the current federal fiscal year. The new 2026–2028 goal accounts for revised projections on transit-specific work, which is distinct from large highway and bridge building programs.

These are part of a larger infrastructure plan. Iowa recently pledged $4.3 billion toward highway and bridge improvement through 2029. Contractor News earlier covered the multi-year capital program, which presents tremendous opportunities for contractors and small businesses. Since federal funding continues to come in, Iowa DOT's DBE program continues to be a valuable method for enhancing equity and competitive participation in transportation contracting.