The Transportation Department is establishing a pilot mentor-protégé program for small businesses in all socioeconomic categories.

Secretary Ray LaHood announced the program during DOT’s Small Business Day April 10. “We want every company, no matter how big or small, and no matter who owns it, to have a chance to do the work America needs done, and we’re fighting every day to put people to work rebuilding our transportation network,” he said.

Mentors can be large or small businesses. They will provide developmental assistance in areas such as project management, financial assistance, technical support, marketing techniques, cooperation on joint-venture projects and rent-free use of facilities. Mentor-protégé agreements can be established for up to two years.

Mentor and protégé firms are responsible for finding their own partners. DOT is encouraging mentors to pair with protégés whose core competencies support the department’s missions.

“We are thrilled to launch this pilot program to provide small businesses with developmental assistance, increasing their ability to compete for and perform in federal procurement opportunities,” OSDBU Director Brandon Neal said. “We encourage business owners to take advantage of this program, gain procurement and marketing techniques, and foster long lasting strategic alliances.”