It is COG's policy that Disadvantaged Business Enterprises (DBEs), as defined in 49 CFR Part 26, shall have the maximum opportunity to participate in the performance of contracts for COG, and specifically those financed in whole or in part with federal funds under grants, contracts, or cooperative agreements. COG's policy is to seek out and include DBEs in the procurement process for all goods and services to the maximum practicable extent. Accordingly, COG encourages DBEs to compete for COG contracts and subcontracts, and encourages joint ventures between DBE and non-DBE firms who compete for COG contracts and subcontracts.