(WASHINGTON, DC) – Today, the D.C. Department of General Services (DGS) announced a Mentor-Protégé Pilot Program launching in FY24. The new pilot program will provide small business enterprises (SBEs) with rich technical training through mentorship with more established construction firms. SBEs participating in this program will partner with larger firms on DGS projects, including in District schools and recreation centers.  

“Small local businesses are vital to our communities and deserve every opportunity to grow and compete for District contracts and dollars. At the same time, the District has a wealth of established firms eager to share their knowledge and help their peers to grow,” said Acting DGS Director Delano Hunter. “By facilitating these spaces for connection, conversation, and mentorship, we are continuing DGS’s mission of building, maintaining, and sustaining District facilities, and Mayor Muriel Bowser’s vision of supporting entrepreneurs and creating job opportunities throughout the District.” 

The program, which supplements the Certified Business Enterprise (CBE) Program administered by the Department of Small and Local Business Development (DSLBD), governs requirements for the participation of CBEs in District contracting. To participate as a protégé, businesses must be designated as an SBE by the DSLBD, be in good standing with the District, and be eligible for contract awards. The Mentor-Protégé Pilot Program will allow mentors and protégé firms to collaborate on DGS contracts and subcontracts, including on planning, implementation, and tracking progress throughout the project.  

The program will kick off with an information session on October 25. Business owners interested in joining can RSVP and access additional information here.