Eligibility & Application

Program Guidance

Mentor-Protege Program Guidance

Application Information

2026 ESB Mentor-Protege Program Application

CDOT is currently accepting applications for the 2026 Mentor-Protégé Program until November 3, 2025.

What are the Eligibility Requirements?

Proteges

  • Active CDOT ESB certification at the following levels:

    • Construction: Levels 1, 2, and SBE

    • Professional Services: Levels 1 and 2 (SBE consultants are not eligible to be Protégés in the ESB Mentor-Protege Program)

  • In business at least 2 full years

  • Must be seeking business growth and expansion opportunities

  • Active MPA with CDOT (for consultants/professional services firms only)

Mentors

  • Completed (closed out) at least 3 projects with CDOT as a prime or sub OR performed at least $3M in CDOT contract work

  • Be actively prequalified with CDOT (MPA/technical prequal for consultants; B2GNow approved prequalification for contractors)

  • DBE and ESB certified firms may be Mentors