What is DBNA?
Discover everything about the Digital Business Networks Alliance - The American einvoicing network revolutionizing B2B document exchange.
What is DBNA Exactly?
The network was launched in 2024 by the Business Payments Coalition and the Federal Reserve to address costly and inefficient manual processes in the American B2B payments industry. DBNA enables businesses to securely and reliably exchange electronic invoices and other business documents without direct technical connections between parties.
Just like Peppol, DBNA works as a "digital post office" - businesses only need to be connected to the network via a certified Access Point, and can then directly communicate with all other connected parties in the United States and beyond, regardless of which software they use.
How does einvoicing via DBNA work?
DBNA uses a 4-corner model based on open, non-proprietary technical standards. An eInvoice via DBNA is a structured XML document in UBL format that can be automatically read and processed by any compatible system.
The process is similar to Peppol: you create an invoice in your own system, it is automatically converted to the DBNA format, sent via secure AS2/AS4 protocols to the recipient's Access Point, and then automatically processed in their system.
Benefits of DBNA
- Standardized access to the North American einvoicing network
- Interoperability with the European Peppol network
- UBL (Universal Business Language) document formats
- Secure AS2/AS4 transport protocols
- Support for all electronic payment methods (ACH, wire, card, instant payments)
- Minimal system changes required for existing ERP systems
Security and Compliance
DBNA maintains strict security standards and ensures compliance with American regulations. All document exchanges occur via encrypted channels and must comply with the alliance's established technical specifications and policy rules.
The organization serves as oversight body for the exchange framework and supports the digital delivery of eInvoices in a way that enables customers of all service providers to communicate with customers of all other service providers.
While Peppol is the established European network, DBNA was specifically developed for the North American market. Both networks use similar technical standards (UBL, AS4) and a 4-corner model, but DBNA is aligned with the American payments landscape and supports all local electronic payment methods. Importantly, both networks are being made interoperable, allowing businesses to communicate globally via a single access point.
Why DBNA is Important for International Trade
The United States has one of the largest B2B markets in the world, but until recently lacked a standardized network for electronic document exchange. DBNA fills this gap and enables international businesses to efficiently conduct business with American partners.
Benefits for European Businesses
- Access to US market: Directly connect to American trading partners
- Cost savings: Elimination of manual processes and paperwork
- Global reach: Combination of Peppol (Europe) and DBNA (US) coverage
- Compliance: Automatic adherence to American and European standards
- Future-proof: Preparation for further digitalization of trade
Growing Adoption
DBNA has more than 30 members and initially focuses on businesses in the energy, supply chain, and life sciences industries. The network is growing rapidly and expects further expansion as more businesses discover the benefits of standardized einvoicing.
DBNA in Numbers
DBNA uses the same proven technology and principles as Peppol, but tailored to the American market and payments landscape.
Ready for DBNA Connection?
Want to connect your business to the DBNA network and benefit from efficient einvoicing with American trading partners? Discover which Access Points are available and how you can get started.
Peppol.now - Your guide in the world of electronic invoicing
