What is an ACDBE Certification?
ACDBE stands for Airport Concessions Disadvantaged Business Enterprise. This certification is a U.S. Federal Aviation Administration program designed to help small businesses owned by socially or economically disadvantaged people to open small businesses inside airports.
How Does ACDBE Certification Work?
An ACDBE certification helps small businesses in underserved communities operate in airports. Airports receiving federal funding for improvement projects are mandated to give ACDBEs the opportunity to participate in concession and management service contracts. All contractors under the Airport Authority must take all necessary steps to allow ACDBEs to bid for contracts without discrimination based on race, color, national origin or sex.
Eligibility Requirements for ACDBE Certification
To participate in bids for airport projects, a business must first be certified through the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT). To get certified, at least 51% of the business needs to be owned and controlled by one socially and economically disadvantaged individual, according to the Los Angeles World Airports Certification Administration. The owner’s net worth and business also cannot exceed a certain threshold in revenue.
Eligible airport concession businesses include:
- Food and beverage operators
- Retail concessionaires
- Service providers
- Duty-free operators
- Hospitality concepts
- Any business operating or planning to operate within an airport environment
Why Does ACDBE Certification Matter?
Right now, some of our nation’s largest airports are undergoing large, multi-year construction and renovation projects, which means more space opening up for new businesses. Becoming an ACDBE-certified business unlocks exclusive access to airport concession contracts at these and over 350 international airports nationwide across. Landing a deal at the airport will bring your small business to the forefront of high-traffic spaces for countless travelers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an ACDBE certification?
The ACDBE certification U.S. Federal Aviation Administration program is designed to help small businesses owned by socially or economically disadvantaged people to open small businesses inside airports.
How does ACDBE work?
To be eligible, at least 51% of the business needs to be owned and controlled by one socially and economically disadvantaged individual and cannot exceed a certain revenue amount.
Which businesses could become ACDBE certified?
Any business operating or planning to operate within an airport environment is eligible for an ACDBE certification once eligibility requirements are met such as; food and beverage operators, retail concessionaires, service providers, duty free operators, and hospitality concepts.
Why is it important for small businesses who want to operate inside airports to receive an ACDBE certification?
Small businesses who want to operate inside airports should seek an ACDBE certification because airports receiving federal funding for improvement projects are mandated to give ACDBEs the opportunity to participate in concession and management service contracts.