WEATHER ALERT: TPA is closely monitoring Tropical Storm Isaias. At this time, Airport operations continue as normal. As always, passengers are encouraged to check with their airline for the latest flight updates.
Policies and Programs
The Aviation Authority (Authority) policies and programs ensure that Small Business Enterprise (SBE), Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE), Airport Concession Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (ACDBE), and Small Business Enterprise Concessionaire (SBEC) firms will have full and fair opportunities to compete for and participate in the performance of airport contracts. The Authority will recognize and encourage Small and Disadvantaged Businesses to participate in various contract opportunities, including construction, architectural and engineering services, professional services, procurement of goods and services, and concession-related contracts.
SMALL BUSINESS ENTERPRISE PROGRAM
In this program, SBEs participate in Authority-funded contracts or in the purchase of goods and services procured by the Authority. This program also applies to certain federally funded contracts and expenditures within the Small Business Element of the DBE program. The SBE program will use procedures that promote inclusion and opportunity while maintaining race- and gender-neutral measures in its operations.
2026 Small Business Enterprise Policy & Program
DISADVANTAGED BUSINESS ENTERPRISE (DBE), AIRPORT CONCESSIONS DBE (ACDBE) & SMALL BUSINESS ENTERPRISE CONCESSIONAIRE (SBEC) PROGRAMS.
In accordance with Federal Law, the Aviation Authority maintains DBE & ACDBE programs to ensure non-discrimination in the award of USDOT-assisted contracts and create a level playing field in which DBEs and ACDBEs can compete for those contracts.
The SBEC Program is the Small Business Element within the ACDBE policy. The SBEC applies to airport concessions as defined by 49CFR part 23. This program does not replace the ACDBE Program or otherwise operate as a substitute for the ACDBE Program. It operates as a race- and sex-neutral tool that may assist small businesses, including ACDBEs, to participate more fully in the Authority's concession opportunities.
- DBE Policy and Program
- ACDBE Policy and Program
- SBEC Policy and Program (ACDBE Policy - Attachment 8 - Small Business Element)
CERTIFICATIONS
SBE and SBEC CERTIFICATION PORTAL
To become certified as an SBE or SBEC with the Aviation Authority, a firm must meet all certification eligibility standards. Detailed certification processes may be found in the Tampa International Airport Business Management System certification portal below.
Fast-track option is available exclusively to DBE/ACDBE firms that have been recertified under the new certification standards.
Important Program Update
The U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) issued a Final Rule effective September 25, 2026, with revisions to the Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) and Airport Concessions DBE (ACDBE) programs. Under the final rule, the UCP for the Jurisdiction of Original Certification (JOC) must complete their reevaluations no later than December 24, 2026.
DBE & ACDBE REEVALUATIONS
Current Reevaluation Window: July 2026 - December 11, 2026
Initial Reevaluation Window: May 1 to June 30, 2026
