AMAC Statement on the USDOT DBE & ACDBE Program Interim Final Rule
Statement
“The U.S. Department of Transportation’s (USDOT) Interim Final Rule (IFR) marks the most significant change to the DBE and ACDBE programs in more than four decades. These programs have long served as a gateway for minority- and women-owned businesses to access airport opportunities. The removal of the rebuttable presumption of social disadvantage based on race and gender fundamentally alters how certification is determined.
This is a pivotal moment. Despite the challenges embedded in the IFR, the DBE and ACDBE programs remain essential to equity and opportunity in airport contracting. This IFR introduces significant uncertainty and administrative burden, placing minority and women-owned firms at risk of disruption during recertification.
While the challenges are real, so is our resolve. AMAC is committed to transforming disruption into opportunity—reaffirming the value of inclusion and ensuring that small, local businesses continue to thrive within the aviation ecosystem.
We remain unwavering in our mission to advance the full participation of minorities and women in employment and contracting opportunities throughout the aviation and aerospace industries.
AMAC is actively developing resources, advocating for our stakeholders, and providing clarity to our members and partners.”
—Eboni Wimbush, President & CEO, Airport Minority Advisory Council (AMAC)
Resources:
- USDOT DBE & ACDBE Program Interim Final Rule: transportation.gov/sites/dot.gov/files/2025-09/DBE%20IFR.Signed.9-30-2025.pdf
- AMAC FAQs on USDOT DBE & ACDBE Program Interim Final Rule: amac-org.com/2025/10/03/amac-faqs-dot-ifr-september-2025
- AMAC Advocacy Actions: amac-org.com/advocacy
Call to Action: AMAC Urges DBEs, ACDBEs, Airports and Partners to Remain Engaged
To support our community in understanding and navigating these changes, AMAC has developed a Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) resource to address many questions our members have raised. These FAQs will be updated regularly as additional guidance and clarity become available.
Additionally, AMAC is hosting two webinars to help stakeholders deepen their understanding and enhance their approach to certification under the IFR.
October 7, 2025 | 11:30 am ET
AMAC Webinar: Maintaining and Expanding DBE/ACDBE Certifications
Focused on helping business owners understand current regulations for demonstrating social disadvantage through personal narratives, this session will offer practical tips for navigating potential process changes. Target Audience: AMAC members who are Business Owners.
- Register: https://www.amac-org.com/events/amac-webinar-maintaining-and-expanding-dbe-acdbe-certifications
October 30, 2025 | 11:30 am ET
AMAC Webinar: Reviewing Personal Narratives for DBE/ACDBE Certifications
Designed for those involved in certification review, this webinar will explore how to interpret and assess personal narratives under the updated non-presumptive eligibility framework. Target Audience: This webinar is exclusively for Airport Representatives and DBE/ACDBE Certifying Bodies.
- Register: amac-org.com/events/amac-webinar-reviewing-personal-narratives-for-dbe-acdbe-certifications
We encourage all stakeholders to attend these sessions, review the FAQ, and stay engaged as AMAC leads its members through this new chapter.
AMAC FAQs — USDOT DBE & ACDBE Program Interim Final Rule
Introduction
On September 30, 2025, the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) issued an Interim Final Rule (IFR) that fundamentally changes the operation of the Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) and Airport Concessions Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (ACDBE) programs. This IFR was published in the Federal Register and became effective October 3, 2025.
For more than four decades, the DBE and subsequently, the ACDBE programs have been a gateway for minority- and women-owned firms to access airport opportunities. The programs include a rebuttable presumption of disadvantage based on race and gender. Per this IFR, the rebuttable presumption of social disadvantage based on race and gender has been eliminated.
In its place, USDOT has mandated that every firm, whether newly applying or currently certified, must demonstrate social and economic disadvantage on an individualized basis. In the interim, all existing certifications are in a suspended state. Firms remain certified in name, but their participation cannot be counted toward DBE or ACDBE goals until a reevaluation of all currently certified firms is conducted. Additionally, airports cannot set new goals during this interim period.
This transition has created uncertainty, but it also creates opportunity. The Airport Minority Advisory Council (AMAC) is committed to supporting its members through this transition. Below are answers to the many questions that have been presented. We will update this list as new and relevant questions are presented.
USDOT DBE & ACDBE Program Interim Final Rule
AMAC FAQs Question Submission: USDOT DBE & ACDBE Program Interim Final Rule
FAQs (As of October 3, 2025)
1. What has changed with the DBE and ACDBE programs?
USDOT has eliminated rebuttable presumptions of social disadvantage based on race and gender. Every DBE/ACDBE owner must now demonstrate social disadvantage individually through a written personal narrative and current Personal Net Worth statement. Until all currently certified firms are reevaluated, participation cannot be counted toward DBE or ACDBE goals.
2. When is this change effective?
The IFR was posted for public inspection on October 2, 2025, and was published in the Federal Register on October 3, 2025, and became effective immediately. Per the IFR, the rule becomes effective immediately after publication. From that point forward, all new DBE/ACDBE applications must follow the individualized certification process. For firms already certified, each Unified Certification Program (UCP) will begin reevaluating firms under the new standard before participation can again be counted toward DBE/ACDBE goals.
3. Does this mean my certification is gone?
No. You are still listed as certified with your UCP. However, your certification must be reevaluated under the new rules. Until that happens, your participation does not count toward DBE/ACDBE goals.
4. Can joint venture partners and primes continue to operate under existing agreements?
Yes, all parties have a binding contract with all the enumerated rights and obligations.
5. What is a “personal narrative” and why does it matter?
The personal narrative is a required written statement in which you, as the business owner, explain the barriers you have faced in business and how those barriers have caused economic harm. It must be detailed and compelling.
6. How long will reevaluation take?
The timeline will vary by state and certifying agency. Thousands of firms need to be reevaluated, which will take time. AMAC will closely monitor timelines and advocate for consistency across airports and UCPs.
7. What is AMAC doing to support its members?
AMAC is taking proactive steps to support members through this transition. We will host sessions to explain the new rule, answer questions, and share resources. In addition, AMAC is developing tailored resources to help all of its members—including DBEs, ACDBEs, corporate partners and airports—clearly understand the changes and navigate their impact.
8. What should I do now?
Review the IFR and IFR Guidance to learn the details of the changes. Attend webinars hosted by AMAC to learn best practices around creating a personal narrative. Start considering the information that you will need to draft your personal narrative immediately, update your Personal Net Worth Statement and collect any supporting documentation.
9. How can we stay competitive during this transition?
Focus on two areas:
- Certification Readiness: Complete your Personal Narrative, update your Personal Net Worth Statement and gather documentation now.
- Operational Excellence: Continue demonstrating strong performance on existing contracts. Airports and primes prioritize partners who have proven they add value beyond credit.
10. Where can I get help preparing my personal narrative?
AMAC members are strongly encouraged to participate in the AMAC webinar, “Maintaining & Expanding DBE/ACDBE Certification,” on October 7, 2025, at 11:30 am ET. Register by clicking here.
Additionally, AMAC is compiling a list of members who can provide one-on-one assistance to prepare your personal narrative and for individual legal advice.
11. AMAC is actively tracking these issues and will update members. The key points under review are:
- What happens if my firm is not recertified?
- Will every state apply these rules the same way?
- Can I appeal a negative decision?
- What if I am in the middle of bidding on a new opportunity?
- How will this impact disparity studies and future goals?
AMAC Submits Letter for Record – House Small Business Subcommittee on Contracting and Infrastructure Holds Hearing on Expanding Opportunities for Small Business Contractors
On September 10, 2025, the House Small Business Subcommittee on Contracting and Infrastructure held the hearing titled “Leveling the Playing Field: Fostering Opportunities for Small Business Contractors.”
On September 11, 2025, AMAC sent a letter to the committee, highlighting the importance of preserving the DBE program and its role in advancing three vital national interests: economic growth, equity and fairness, and innovation and resilience. The letter also expressed concern about recent policies that have created significant barriers, threatening the survival of small businesses in federal contracting and further eroding innovation, local job creation, and the diverse entrepreneurial ecosystem that underpins the U.S. economy.
Video of Hearing: https://www.youtube.com/live/MxrXx17S0fM?si=GqO3yBUHnFUNiCjs
Press Release: https://smallbusiness.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=407313
AMAC Submits Comments on RFI – Advancing a Surface Transportation Proposal That Focuses on America’s Most Fundamental Infrastructure Needs
On July 21, 2025, the U.S. Department of Transportation’s (DOT) Office of the Secretary published a Request for Information (RFI): Advancing a Surface Transportation Proposal That Focuses on America’s Most Fundamental Infrastructure Needs to the Federal Register in preparation for the next surface transportation reauthorization bill. DOT invited public input on the next surface transportation authorizing legislation, with comments accepted through the RFI that closed September 8, 2025 (extended from August 20).
On September 8, 2025, AMAC submitted comments urging DOT to preserve and strengthen the Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) program in the forthcoming reauthorization of the Surface Transportation Act. The current surface transportation authorization is set to expire on September 30, 2026.
AMAC National Office Welcomes Tia Perry to the Team
Please join us in welcoming the newest member to the AMAC National Office! Tia Perry serves as the Vice President of Strategic Partnerships & Membership at AMAC, where she leads the Membership and Sponsorship teams. With nearly two decades of experience in the construction and transportation association industries, she is dedicated to advancing engagement strategies and building impactful partnerships that drive organizational growth.
An accomplished and award-winning association executive, Tia has more than 18 years of success in membership growth, strategic partnerships, and business development across the nonprofit and association sectors. She combines vision, execution, and heart in every initiative she leads.
Most recently, Tia was Executive Director of AEC Unites, where she oversaw the launch of a national nonprofit dedicated to creating intentional opportunities for Black talent and Black-owned businesses in the architecture, engineering, and construction industry. Prior to that, she held several leadership roles at Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC), where she championed diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives, advised senior leadership, and spearheaded efforts that increased diverse membership recruitment by 8% and generated over $2 million in non-dues revenue.
Tia began her career at the Transportation Intermediaries Association (TIA), where she consistently grew membership, implemented data-driven engagement strategies, and launched innovative programs, including the Young Executive Networking Mixers across six states.
She holds a B.S. in Psychology from Old Dominion University and was named a 2020 Diversity Executive Leadership Program (DELP) Scholar by the American Society of Association Executives (ASAE).
Based in Northern Virginia, Tia enjoys mentoring youth and coaching youth basketball and treasures time with her husband and two children.
Welcome Aboard: Introducing the New AMAC Houston Chapter
Washington, DC (August 13, 2025)—We are proud to announce the launch of the AMAC Houston Chapter. This new Chapter provides tailored programming, professional connections, and a powerful platform in one of the nation’s top airport hubs. Become an AMAC National member and join the Houston Chapter today!
Meet the Chapter Officers
- President: Tamika Dickerson of HNTB
- Vice President of Finance: Raquel Olivier of Olivier, Inc.
- Vice President of Aviation: Michael Martin of AECOM
- Vice President of Public Relations: Thalia Andre-Noel of McKnight International
- Vice President of Corporate Relations: Rhonda Arnold of the Houston Airport System
- Vice President of Programs: Shanita Pettway of Fronza & Francis
- Vice President of Membership: Jerry Bustamante of RS&H
- Secretary: James Dean of the Walsh Group.
How to Get Involved
- Join Nationally – AMAC National membership is required to participate at the Chapter level and includes full member benefits.
- Opt Into Houston Chapter – Just $50/year, offering access to events, mentorship, committees, and local networking.
- Engage Actively – Attend orientation sessions (online and in-person), volunteer for committees, and participate in events.
Results of the 2025 AMAC Board of Directors Elections
New Orleans, LA (July 2, 2025)—Check out the results of the 2025 AMAC Board of Directors Elections!
- Treasurer: William “Bill” Swift, Owner & President, Business Traveler Services, Inc.
- Secretary: Siobhan Higgins, Managing Director, Ten Thirty Media
- Northeast Regional Director: Indhira Figuereo Blaney, Senior Vice President, National Aviation / Market Leader, WSP USA
- Central Regional Director: Shelia Hudson, Principal & CEO, Hudson and Associates
- Northwest Regional Director: Jeannie Killebrew, President, Killebrew | Killebrew, Inc
- At-Large Director: Lauryn Mangum Reed, Executive Vice President, TMG Hospitality USA
Minority and Women-Owned Business Groups Oppose Proposed Agreement that Threatens Landmark Remedial Program
AMAC continues its role as part of a coalition vigorously defending the constitutionality of the U.S. Department of Transportation’s (DOT) Disadvantaged Business Enterprise Program (DBE), ensuring its continued role in advancing economic opportunity and fairness in federally funded contracting.
“The DBE Program isn’t just a policy—it’s a pathway for diverse businesses to contribute meaningfully to infrastructure, innovation, and job creation,” said Eboni Wimbush, President & CEO of the Airport Minority Advisory Council (AMAC). “This rushed and unfair consent order would gut that progress, threaten the economic vitality, and undermine the growth of opportunities in local communities across the country. We will not be sidelined.”
Press Release: https://democracyforward.org/updates/mamco-opposition
Filings:
AMAC Selects 8 Outstanding Small Businesses from the Inaugural Runway to Success Supplier Pitch Competitions Across the Country to Compete at the 40th Annual AMAC Airport Business Conference
Washington, DC (June 11, 2025) — The Airport Minority Advisory Council (AMAC) proudly announces the Round 1 winners of its newly launched Runway to Success program that recently hosted two supplier pitch competitions in Baton Rouge, LA and St. Louis, MO. These “Shark-Tank” tournament-style pitch competitions offered suppliers an opportunity to expand their business into the airport food and retail industry.
“Each Runway to Success event offered participants invaluable opportunities for mentorship, exposure and funding as they presented their business models and innovations tailored to the aviation industry. The winners demonstrated remarkable potential, creativity and readiness to scale their impact across airports, said Ricky D. Smith, Chair, AMAC Board of Directors / General Manager & CEO, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport.
2025 RUNWAY TO SUCCESS PITCH ROUND 1 COMPETITION WINNERS
ST. LOUIS, MO COMPETITION WINNERS
[St. Louis, MO] Kay Wells of Posie Pots- Posie Pots is perfectly tailored for those with busy lifestyles, offering a minimal-maintenance solution that keeps plant care simple and easy.
- TeaVoila is a patented compostable cup with tea already built at the bottom of the cup, just add hot water and enjoy .
- Bitoy’s Sweet Treats is a Chicago-based brand offering a premium line of handcrafted popcorn and artisan brownies that bring modern indulgence to traditional favorites.
- Good Boy Goodies is an all-natural dog treat brand that offers high-quality, wholesome snacks that keep tails wagging and pet parents happy.
BATON ROUGE, LA COMPETITION WINNERS
[Addis, LA] Tyrone and Jeanetta Taylor of You Fork’n Right- You Fork’n Right embodies the culinary value and quality of authentic Louisiana cuisine. It’s simple, tasty and reasonably priced. Packaged well and small enough for a carry-on.
- Charcuterie On The Fly is a beautifully crafted, individually packaged charcuterie box that provides travelers a sophisticated, convenient dining option before or between flights.
- Rejuvenation offers plant-based energy drinks and functional beverages, including sparkling okra water, crafted with natural ingredients to promote wellness and provide clean, long-lasting energy.
- Vacaciones Vodka Seltzers is a premium, vodka-based hard seltzer brand created for travelers who crave bold flavor and high-quality ingredients.
Round 1 winners will compete at the 40th Annual AMAC Airport Business Conference in New Orleans, LA. They will also receive national recognition, mentorship from industry leaders and opportunities to further engage with airport authorities and major contractors nationwide.
“AMAC is committed to fostering opportunities for exposure while igniting meaningful business development connections for small businesses aspiring to enter the aviation industry. These dynamic events spotlighted rising entrepreneurs, giving them a platform to pitch their products to industry leaders and airport executives – a potential game-changing opportunity to open doors to a space traditionally difficult to access,” said Eboni Wimbush, President & CEO, AMAC.
“As Chair of the AMAC Supplier Access and Opportunity Initiative, I am proud to congratulate the exceptional suppliers advancing to the Elite Eight round of Runway to Success. These visionary businesses represent the innovation, resilience, and excellence required to thrive in today’s aviation industry. Their advancement reflects the growing momentum for meaningful supplier inclusion across the nation’s airports. I also extend my heartfelt appreciation to our remarkable hosts—St. Louis Lambert International Airport; Francois Lyles-Wiggins and her dedicated team at the Office of Business Diversity Development (BDD); Baton Rouge Councilman Cleve Dunn, Jr.; and the leadership at Baton Rouge Metropolitan Airport (BTR). Their unwavering support and partnership transformed this regional event into a national platform, paving the way for diverse suppliers to grow, compete, and lead. Together, we are redefining what access and opportunity look like in aviation.”—Shelia Hudson, President & CEO, Hudson and Associates; Central Regional Director, AMAC Board of Directors
“We were so honored to be one of two cities that hosted the first Runway to Success Pitch Competition. The amount of talent and product variety we had from our 14 participants was amazing, and this event was a great way to celebrate and hopefully elevate their businesses!”—Rhonda Hamm-Niebruegge, Director, St. Louis Lambert International Airport
“The Baton Rouge Runway to Success Supplier Pitch Competition featured 21 vendors presenting products, services, and ideas to top aviation industry players like SSP America, Hudson by Avolta, SP+, and Paradies Lagardère —leaders in airport retail, concessions, and operations worldwide. Entrepreneurs gained exposure, made key connections, and learned how to tailor scalable offerings for aviation retail, wholesale, and direct-to-consumer markets. As an entrepreneur, I aim to empower suppliers with tools, knowledge, and opportunities for lasting wealth and stability in the industry. Congrats to all participants, especially the Elite Eight for moving on to showcase their concepts at the 40th Annual AMAC Airport Business Conference in New Orleans this June.”– Cleve Dunn Jr., Council Member, Baton Rouge, LA (District 6), Commissioner, Baton Rouge Metropolitan Airport; Member, AMAC Foundation Board of Directors
AMAC extends congratulations to all the winners and participants for their inspiring contributions to the future of airport commerce, innovation and community impact.
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About Runway to Success
AMAC Runway to Success is a “Shark Tank-style” four-round progressive supplier pitch competition to spotlight suppliers of goods and services with the potential to support and enhance the airport concessions industry. For more information, visit www.amac-org.com/rtswww.amac-org.com/rts.
About the Airport Minority Advisory Council (AMAC)
The Airport Minority Advisory Council (AMAC) is the only national, non-profit trade association dedicated to advancing the full participation of minorities and women in employment and contracting opportunities throughout the aviation and aerospace industries. Since 1984, AMAC has been at the forefront of nearly every national policy initiative impacting the participation of disadvantaged businesses in airport contracting. AMAC works consistently with Congress, the federal government, aviation trade associations and strategic partners as resources for information, education and guidance on business and employment matters. AMAC represents a diverse membership of airports, corporations, minority, women-owned and disadvantaged business enterprises, and professionals within the aviation and aerospace industries. For more information, visit amac-org.com.
Media Contact:
Ramon Lo, Director of Membership & Industry Engagement, AMAC
rlo@amac-org.com
AMAC Statement on the Mid-America Milling Company v. U.S. Department of Transportation Case
WASHINGTON, DC (May 30, 2025) – The Airport Minority Advisory Council (AMAC) issued the following statement:
On May 21, 2025, in a decisive victory for equity in public contracting, the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Kentucky granted AMAC, and our coalition partners (DBE-Intervenors) the right to intervene in Mid-America Milling Company v. USDOT, ensuring that our voices and those of the businesses we represent, will be heard.
Just days later, on May 28, the Department of Justice and the Plaintiffs filed a joint motion proposing a consent order that would dismantle the DBE Program, authorized by Congress in 1983 without consulting or notifying the DBE-Intervenors.
In response, on May 29, the newly admitted party in this case, DBE-Intervenors filed a formal Notice of Intent to oppose the motion. We will not stand by while others attempt to quietly unravel decades of progress.
We are in this fight, we have a voice, and we will be heard!
Eboni Wimbush, Airport Minority Advisory Council (AMAC) President & CEO