In another strategic move, last year the Saulsberry Group began pursuing certifications that would allow it to provide its services to the South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT).  This will allow Saulsberry Group to help rebuild South Carolina roads, bridges, and highways by providing services to companies in the following eligible areas of work: Business Health Checks, Design Thinking Sessions, Strategic Planning and Operating Models, Stakeholder Management and Engagement, Transformation/Program Management and Intellectual Capital.  The DBE and SBE certifications are important designations.  Currently, of the almost 400 contractors listed on the SCDOT Prequalified Contractor List, only 3.5% are DBE certified and only 0.25% are SBE certified.

Shawn Saulsberry, CEO of Saulsberry Group, says,

“Having the opportunity to provide strategic transformation services to the Department of Transportation underscores that the services provided by Saulsberry Group are truly industry agnostic.  Business assessments, innovation, strategic planning; program, project, and stakeholder management, are services relevant to every type of business.  We are here to provide these services at levels of quality and cost that are unbeatable in the market.”

What are DBE and SBE certifications?

The Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) Program in South Carolina is designed to promote equal opportunity for small businesses owned and controlled by socially and economically disadvantaged individuals, particularly in the realm of highway construction and related projects. Administered by the South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT), the program aims to ensure nondiscrimination in the awarding of federally assisted contracts and to enhance the participation of minority and women-owned businesses in state-funded transportation projects.

To qualify for DBE certification in South Carolina, a business must meet the following criteria:

• Small Business Status: The firm must qualify as a small business according to the Small Business Administration (SBA) standards, with annual gross receipts averaged over three years not exceeding $30.72 million. Specific thresholds depend on the type of work the firm performs.
• Ownership and Control: The business must be at least 51% owned and controlled by socially and economically disadvantaged individuals. This includes minorities and women who have a personal net worth less than $2.047 million, excluding their primary residence and business equity.
• Independence: The firm must operate independently, with its viability not dependent on another firm. It should not share personnel, equipment, or facilities with other companies.
• Demonstrated Control: Owners must have the final decision-making authority, hold the highest position in the company, and possess the necessary knowledge, education, and experience in the firm’s specific area of work.

The Small Business Enterprise (SBE) Program in South Carolina is designed to enhance opportunities for small businesses in the state’s procurement processes, particularly in transportation-related contracts. Administered by the South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT), the program aims to increase the participation of small businesses in state-funded projects, fostering economic growth and diversity within the state’s business community.

To qualify for SBE certification in South Carolina, a business must meet the following requirements:

• Ownership and Control: The eligible owner(s) must control 100% of the firm and be actively involved in its day-to-day management and operations.
• Gross Sales Receipts: The firm’s gross sales receipts must not exceed $7.5 million, averaged over a five-year period.
• Personal Net Worth: The eligible owner’s personal net worth must not exceed $2.047 million.
• Business Status: The firm must be a bona fide existing business that performs work for profit. Not-for-profit organizations are not eligible.
• Independence: The firm must operate independently, without control or influence from a non-SBE firm. It should not share personnel, facilities, equipment, financial, or other resources with a non-SBE firm.

Benefits of Partnering with DBE/SBE Certified Organizations:

1. Access to Government Contracts: Many government agencies, including the South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT) and the City of Charleston, set aside a portion of their contracts specifically for DBE/SBE certified businesses. Partnering with these organizations can enhance eligibility and competitiveness for such contracts.
2. Promotion of Diversity and Inclusion: Collaborating with DBE/SBE firms supports diversity in the business community, fostering economic growth and innovation. The City of Charleston’s Minority & Women-Owned Business Enterprise (M&WBE) Office actively promotes increased participation of minority and women-owned businesses in local contracting opportunities. (Charleston SC)
3. Potential for Tax Incentives: While specific tax incentives may vary, engaging with certified small and disadvantaged businesses can sometimes provide tax benefits, depending on current state and federal programs.
4. Enhanced Community Relations: Supporting local DBE/SBE businesses can strengthen community ties and improve public perception, demonstrating commitment to local economic development.

Charleston-Specific Statistics:

• Small Business Presence: As of 2023, small businesses constitute 99.4% of all businesses in South Carolina, employing 42.2% of the state’s workforce. In Charleston, the M&WBE Office maintains a database of certified minority and women-owned businesses, reflecting the city’s commitment to supporting these enterprises.  (Office of Advocacy, Charleston SC)
• Economic Impact: Between March 2021 and March 2022, South Carolina saw a net increase of 79,905 jobs, with small businesses contributing approximately 78.9% of this growth. This underscores the significant role small businesses play in the state’s economy, including in the Charleston area.  (Office of Advocacy)
• Certification Opportunities: The City of Charleston offers M&WBE certification, providing businesses with access to various contracting opportunities and resources aimed at business growth and expansion. (Charleston SC)

By engaging with DBE/SBE certified organizations, businesses and government entities in Charleston can contribute to a more inclusive and robust local economy, while also benefiting from the diverse perspectives and innovations that these enterprises bring.  This is why we proudly display both badges on our website.

Want to know more?

• Review the services we provide here:  Saulsberry Group – What We Do
• Learn about who we are here:  Saulsberry Group – Who We Are
• Set up an appointment to learn more here:  Learn More About Saulsberry Group