New Orleans RTA launches new DBE certification portal

A new online Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) certification process was launched by the New Orleans Regional Transit Authority (RTA).

The NORTA Diversity Compliance System is the cloud-based portal that will be utilized to process DBE application certifications. The new system, which replaces the manual process, highlights the agency's efforts to use innovation and technology to increase efficiency and convenience for riders and partners. The RTA is the first Louisiana Unified Certification Program (LAUCP) to offer online certification.

New Orleans RTA says its commitment to equity is the core of the agency’s values and includes using financial resources to contribute to the community’s economic development. New Orleans RTS says this is proven by the fact that it awarded $7.3 million in contracts to DBEs in 2021, exceeding the 30 percent DBE utilization objective by more than 20 percent, making it one of the state’s top performers in the area.

Through the new portal, businesses interested in working with New Orleans RTA can submit online applications for DBE certification or re-certification, submit changes to DBE vendor profiles, address questions and issues in real or near real-time, access an enhanced online DBE directory with keyword search capabilities and obtain access to online and web-based training for the use of the RTA Diversity Compliance System.

All currently certified RTA DBEs have been transitioned to a new directory, which can now be accessed online.