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1. What are the requirements for registration as a Local Small Business (LSB)?

To be registered, an applicant:

• Must have its principal place of business in Augusta-Richmond County
• Must have an Augusta-Richmond County business license six months prior to submitting their LSBOP registration application
• Firm’s three (3) year average annual gross receipts do not exceed $1.5 million
  
• Individual owner's personal net worth does not exceed $750,000

2. How long does the application process take?

Applications are process within seven business days. In most cases, if proper documentation is submitted with the application, the process is shortened.

3. What if a question on the application does not apply to me?

Please review the application thoroughly before making this determination. Failing to submit all documentation at the time of application will lengthen the registration process. If a question does not apply, please write "not applicable (N/A)" and include an explanatory note.

4. If I am already certified by the Department of Transportation (DOT) will I automatically be certified with Augusta-Richmond County?

No – You must complete the application and provide a copy of DOT’s certification letter.

5. Will this registration automatically certify my company for DOT federal projects?

No – You must complete DOT’s Uniform Certification application. The DBE office can assist you with any questions you may have.

6. How long does my registration last?

Your registration is good for two years.

7. What are the benefits of registering?

• Central location to get information on almost any project within Augusta-Richmond County
• Inclusion in the Augusta-Richmond County Directory of Local Small Businesses
• Increased opportunities for doing business with prime contractors
• Increased opportunities for the award of contracts
• Financial assistance from the Link Deposit Program
• Workshops, seminars and training programs
• Provides your firm higher visibility for contracting opportunities

8. Services we offer?

• Provides LSBOP with access to Augusta-Richmond County contracting opportunity information
• Assistance with the DOT Uniform Certification
• Training, workshops and seminars
• Provide financial information on the Augusta-Richmond County Link Deposit Program
• Engages in outreach activities designed to increase the capacity of registered firms

9. What is a locally based company?

Any business entity, which has its principal office and place of doing business in Augusta-Richmond County.

10. Does Augusta-Richmond County work with local banks to provide short-term financing for working capital to companies awarded city contracts?

Yes, Augusta-Richmond County does have formal agreements with two (2) local banks to provide this type of service to companies awarded city contracts.

11. Does Augusta-Richmond County hire subcontractors?

No. Augusta-Richmond County awards contracts only to prime contractors. Any prospective subcontractor must negotiate directly with prime contractors who are bidding the entire project

12. How can I submit a bid?

Contact all prospective prime contractors and inform them that you are qualified to do the work on the part of the project in which you are interested.

13. How can I convince the prime contractor that I am qualified to do the job?

A personal interview is the most effective means of communication. At that time, resumes, brochures, pictures, example of recently performed work, and letters of reference can be presented to the prospective prime contractor.

For additional information, please contact the Disadvantaged Business Enterprise Department