Direct participation program (or direct participation plan, abbreviated DPP) is a financial security that enables investors to participate in a business venture's cash flow and taxation benefits. Chiefly used in the past as a tax shelter, recent tax regulations have reduced its effectiveness in this respect.
DPP securities are traded on the OTC Bulletin Board since May 1997.
Direct participation programs are most commonly formed to invest in real estate, energy and equipment leasing projects.