Written Christina Berry
Mar 10, 2025
With DBE certification, NEOO can compete for a broader range of government funded projects while strengthening its ability to support statewide and regional economic growth efforts in the Southeastern U.S.
NEOO Partners Secures DBE Certification in Texas, North Carolina, Arkansas, Alabama, and Florida
Expanding Economic Opportunity and Inclusive Development Through Public and Private Partnerships
St. Paul, MN – NEOO Partners, a mission-driven planning, real estate, and economic development firm, is proud to announce its certification as a Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) in Texas, North Carolina, Arkansas, Alabama, and Florida. This milestone strengthens NEOO’s ability to lead transformational projects that prioritize community-driven solutions, economic inclusion, and sustainable development.
The DBE certification, a designation under the U.S. Department of Transportation’s DBE Program, enhances opportunities for minority-owned and historically underutilized businesses to participate in federally funded infrastructure and transportation projects. With this certification, NEOO Partners will expand its work with state and local governments, transportation agencies, and private-sector entities to create development strategies that serve diverse communities.
"Achieving DBE certification in these states is a major step forward for NEOO Partners,” said D’Angelos Svenkeson, CEO at NEOO Partners. “Our mission is rooted in advancing access and inclusion through innovative planning and economic development. This certification allows us to further align our expertise with projects that prioritize long-term growth, particularly in historically underserved communities.”
Empowering Communities Through Inclusive Development
NEOO Partners has a proven track record of shaping community-centered solutions in urban planning, real estate strategy, and economic development.
The firm specializes in:
Comprehensive Neighborhood & Economic Development Planning – Partnering with local governments, businesses, and residents to co-create thriving, sustainable communities.
Infrastructure & Transportation Planning – Enhancing mobility, connectivity, and economic access through inclusive transportation solutions.
Real Estate Advisory & Public-Private Partnerships – Driving strategic investments that support long-term prosperity for underserved communities.
With DBE certification, NEOO can compete for a broader range of government funded projects while strengthening its ability to support statewide and regional economic growth efforts in the Southeastern U.S.
A Commitment to Economic Progress & Inclusive Growth
NEOO’s mission is to redefine how development happens—centering communities, dismantling systemic barriers, and creating opportunities for long-term success. The firm’s core values of integrity, impact, collaboration, and innovation drive its work in transforming urban spaces into hubs of shared prosperity.
“We believe that inclusive development is not just a concept—it’s a movement,” Svenkeson added. “Our DBE status allows us to be a stronger advocate for community-first development while collaborating with agencies and industry leaders to create sustainable, long-term solutions.”
Next Steps: Expanding Partnerships & Opportunities
As a newly certified DBE in North Carolina, Arkansas, Alabama, and Florida, NEOO Partners is actively seeking partnerships with prime contractors, government agencies, and private-sector firms to bring impact-driven, community-centered solutions to major infrastructure and development initiatives.
Organizations interested in working with NEOO Partners can visit www.neoopartners.com or contact Alysia Osborne at alysia@neoopartners or 704.737.2587
About NEOO Partners
NEOO Partners is a Black-owned, mission-driven firm specializing in urban planning, real estate development, and economic strategy. Through data-driven insights, inclusive engagement, and bold innovation, NEOO helps communities and organizations build prosperous, thriving places. The firm is headquartered in St. Paul, Minnesota and works nationally to advance sustainable community and economic development.