BRIDGE Overview

To accomplish this policy goal, the City of Tulsa designed a program called BRIDGE.

BRIDGE promotes connections between small, developing and growing businesses and opportunities available through larger companies in the area.

The Building Resources in Developing and Growing Enterprises (BRIDGE) program was introduced on January 30, 2007.  The program is available to all small businesses whose services and supplies meets the size standard criteria set forth in Section 8(a) of the Small Business Act (SBA) and the criteria set forth by the Department of Transportation, CFR 49 part 26 for a small business in its primary industry classification for construction. To be eligible to participate in the program the personal net worth of the small business owner(s) must not exceed $750,000. If you are on the City of Tulsa previously certified business list, you are automatically eligible to become certified in the new BRIDGE program, and will not be required to submit any additional paperwork.

What is a Developing Business?

A Developing Business is a business whose size standard meets the criteria set forth in Section 8(a) of the Small Business Act, 15 U.S.C.A.  §637 (a), for a small business in its primary industry classification, independent of its status as a socially disadvantaged business.  A "developing business" is a small business in its early stages of operations.

What is a Growing Business?

A Growing Business is a business whose size standard meets the criteria set forth in Section 8(a) of the Small Business Act, 15 U.S.C.A.  §637(a), for a small business in its primary industry classification, independent of its status as a socially disadvantaged business.  A "growing business" is a small business with demonstrated capacity to expand; it is a mature business seeking to expand operations and increase revenues.

How Does a Developing Business Become Certified Under BRIDGE?
Developing Businesses must demonstrate that they meet the SBA size standards. The City of Tulsa Human Rights Department provides the program application and reviews the application in conjunction with the City's Certification Committee to certify businesses that meet the criteria. Businesses can also become certified through reciprocity if they are already certified with certain agencies such as the Oklahoma Department of Transportation. To find out more, contact the program coordinator at (918) 596-7818.