At Cherriots, we believe in opening doors for businesses and building strong partnerships in our community. Our Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) Program is designed to help businesses compete fairly for opportunities in construction, procurement, and professional services with the Salem Area Mass Transit District (SAMTD).
With support from the U.S. Department of Transportation, SAMTD is committed to ensuring that every business has an equal chance to succeed. By working together, we strengthen our projects, support local talent, and create a more inclusive future for public transportation in our region.
Our Goal
Cherriots has established a DBE participation goal of 2.43 percent for Federal Transit Administration (FTA) funded projects spanning federal fiscal years 2024-2026. This goal is in accordance with the requirements of the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT), as set for in 49 C.F.R. Part 26.
For goal methodology details, see:
SAMTD Goal Rationale for FY 2024-2026, 3-Year DBE Goal Determination
Certification
The DBE Program creates a level playing field so certified firms can fairly compete for contracts with the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) recipients, including Cherriots, regardless of ownership or size.
Visit the Certification Office for Business Inclusion and Diversity (COBID) website for information on the various certifications available to make your company visible to Cherriots as well as other public and private entities.
Note: COBID was formerly known as the Office of Minority, Women, and Emerging Small business (OMWESB).
Questions?
For DBE questions, contact our DBE Liaison Officer (DBELO):

Melissa Kidd
Email: melissa.kidd@cherriots.org | Phone: 503-588-2424