Melissa Hurley addresses the future of the DBE program at CCI

Melissa Hurley, CCI's Vice President, has highlighted concerns regarding the possible termination of the Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) program, a federal initiative established to support minority- and women-owned enterprises. The program, worth $37 billion, is facing scrutiny following a Consent Order from plaintiffs including Mid-America Milling Company and Bagshaw Trucking, which alleges the program's unconstitutionality.

A coalition of businesses representing minority and women-owned companies has opposed the Consent Order, emphasizing the program's importance. They argue that its dissolution could diminish the voice and opportunities for these businesses.

CCI, a Women Business Enterprise based in Chicago, indicated that the DBE program is essential for allowing competitive access to federally funded projects. Without it, CCI could experience significant financial challenges, potentially leading to layoffs or closure.

Hurley stated, “If the DBE folds and WBE & MBE are next, small business closures would be profound.” Currently, CCI relies on the DBE program for 30% of its contracts, with major portions also sourced from city-managed initiatives.

The consequences of dissolving the DBE program may reverberate across Illinois, impacting many minority and women contractors who depend on such programs for their operational support.

For over two decades, Melissa Hurley, alongside her mother, has advocated for women in the construction field, striving to influence legislation favoring the continuation of the DBE program and other similar efforts.