The city of St. Petersburg is committed to assisting Small Business Enterprises (SBEs), in accordance with the Municipal Code as defined by Section 2-239 to 2-246 of Division 4, Article 5, Chapter 2. Our programs purpose is to foster growth in the economy and provide opportunities for small business. We certify SBE's for contracting and procurement opportunities in construction, good and services, professional services and supplies.
Benefits of the SBE Program
- SBE Goals on project-by-project basis.
- Sheltered Market (construction set asides and on goods and services)
- Discounts for goods and services (1-15% for bids and quotes)
- Payment assistance / joint checks
- Progress payments / timely payments by the city
- Solicitation of certified SBEs for all contracts
- Technical and financial assistance
- Workshops, seminars and training programs
- Plans and specifications at a reduced rate
- Advocating for reciprocal certification
Eligibility and Criteria
A business which is independently owned, operated and controlled; which is not dominant in its field of operation; and which meets the following criteria:
Your business must...
- Serve a commercially useful function
- Have been in operation for at least one year
- Have 25 employees or less
- Have an annual sales volume (averaged over the previous three years) of:
- Goods/Services/Supplies: $3 million or less
- Construction: $5 million or less
- Have a physical business address located within the limits of Pinellas, Hillsborough, Pasco, Manatee or Polk counties. (A post office box is not acceptable as a business address.)
- Be certified by the city's Business Assistance Division.
SBE Certification Process
- Complete a city of St. Petersburg SBE application.
- Register your company with the purchasing department
SBE Re-Certification Process
Current city of St. Petersburg SBE's renewing their existing certification need to complete:
If you have any questions or are in need of assistance, do not hesitate to contact the Business Assistance Center at 727-893-7146 or contact one of our specialists directly.
Small Business Enterprise (SBE) vendors are only certified as meeting the established criteria of the existing SBE program and not certified as qualified in any other area. The city of St. Petersburg is not recommending and does not endorse SBE vendors. The city is not responsible for and disclaims any representation made by any SBE vendor. You must do the appropriate due diligence before selecting an SBE vendor.