Office of Small Business and DVBE Services

“Spring Into Working with Caltrans” hosted by Caltrans Date: Tuesday, April 1 to Thursday, April 3 from 10 – 12 p.m. Registration: https://lnkd.in/g95_YPs6   “How to do Business with the State” hosted by Los Angeles Latino Chamber of Commerce Date: Wednesday, April 2, 10 – 11 a.m. Registration: https://lnkd.in/gB44GxJp   “Interested in selling your products or services to the State of CA?” hosted by SBDC North San Diego County Date: Wednesday, April 2, from noon – 1:30 p.m. Registration: https://lnkd.in/g2GbQykN   “2nd Annual Imperial Valley Procurement and Resource Fair” hosted by Caltrans Date: Wednesday, April 2, from 2 – 5 p.m. Registration: https://lnkd.in/giJU7NQe    “2025 Business Development Lunch Series” hosted by Regional Hispanic Contractors Association (RHCA) Date: Friday, April 4, from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. Registration: https://lnkd.in/giYEBfbu   “CSU The California State University Small Business Expo” hosted by California State University, Fullerton Date: Tuesday, April 8, from 8 – 11:30 a.m. Registration: https://lnkd.in/g5q-h_ad “SAME Small Business Matchmaking Event” hosted by Society of American Military Engineers Date: Tuesday, April 8, from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. Registration: https://lnkd.in/gBmjXsAe “I’m Certified. Now What?” hosted by Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce Date: Wednesday, April 9, from 8 – 11 a.m. Registration: https://lnkd.in/gZ2d6_9e “Strategy & Innovation Workshops + Pich Challenge” hosted by ChicoSTART Date: Wednesday, April 9, from 1 – 7 p.m. Registration: https://lnkd.in/gDzR-j4V “Contracting with the State of California” hosted by San Diego, Orange, Imperial APEX Accelerator Date: Wednesday, April 9, from 9 – 10 a.m. Registration: https://lnkd.in/ggfAh__a “The California Business Policy Summit” hosted by California Hispanic Chambers of Commerce Date: Thursday, April 10, from 9 a.m.  – 7 p.m. Registration: https://lnkd.in/g2uQ8_Ub “NAWBO-CA Propel 2025” hosted by @National Association of Women Business Owners – California Date: Friday April 10 and Friday, April 11, from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Registration: https://lnkd.in/gzdhNzFn #OSDSBusinessOutreach #SmallBusiness #StateProcurement #DisabledVeteranBusinessEnterprise #Procurement

A common mistake #SmallBusiness and #DisabledVeteranBusinessEnterprise firms make in submitting bids is to not complete Form 74 for Vendors, also referred to the Postconsumer Recycled-Content Certification. The State Agency Buy Recycled Campaign is a mandated program requiring all state agencies verify the recycle content of product purchases within certain categories.     Every bidder, regardless of whether their product meets the minimum content requirements, needs to complete the form. The form is used to certify the minimum or exact percentage to the state buyer of postconsumer recycled-content (PCRC) material in the products, materials, goods, or supplies offered or sold.     Follow the link below for tips and information on the form.  https://lnkd.in/gqMHmz4S   Our “Essential Tuesday” posts offer tips, how-to, resources and advice to help #SmallBusiness and #DisabledVeteranBusinessEnterprise firms gain an edge in state contracting. To reach OSDS call us at (916) 375-4940 or email [email protected].         #EarthDay #InvestInOurPlanet #GreenProcurement #EnvironmentallyPreferablePurchasing #EPP #Sustainability #SmallBusiness #DisabledVeteranBusinessEnterprise #BuyGreen #SustainablePublicProcurement #SustainablePurchasing #CaliforniaForAll 

“I’m Certified. Now What” hosted by San Diego, Orange, Imperial APEX Accelerator Date: Wednesday, March 26, from 10 a.m. – noon Registration: https://lnkd.in/g8Qu-U6p   “Informational Session to Prepare Local Business for Certification” hosted by @County of San Mateo Office of Racial and Social Justice Date: Thursday, March 27, from 1 – 2 p.m. Registration: Meeting Registration - Zoom   “Woman in Construction (WIC) Summit hosted by AGC of California Date: Monday, March 31, from 8 a.m. – 3 p.m. Registration: https://lnkd.in/g4wxeYnX “Spring Into Working with Caltrans” hosted by Caltrans District 3 Date: Wednesday, April 1-3, from 10 – 12N Registration: https://lnkd.in/g95_YPs6   “2nd Annual Imperial Valley Procurement and Resource Fair hosted by Caltrans Date: Wednesday, April 2, from 2 – 5 p.m. Registration: https://lnkd.in/giJU7NQe   “How to do Business with the State” hosted by LATINO BUSINESS CHAMBER OF GREATER LOS ANGELES FOUNDATION, INC. Date: Wednesday, April 2, from 10 – 11 a.m. Registration: https://lnkd.in/gB44GxJp   “Interested in selling your products or services to the State of CA?” hosted by North San Diego Business Chamber Date: Wednesday, April 2, from noon – 1:30 p.m. Registration: https://lnkd.in/g2GbQykN   “2025 Business Development Lunch Series’ hosted by Regional Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Date: Friday, April 4, from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. Registration: https://lnkd.in/giYEBfbu     #OSDSBusinessOutreach #SmallBusiness #StateProcurement #DisabledVeteranBusinessEnterprise #Procurement

As we celebrate Women’s History Month, what better way to honor the resilience, strength, and achievements of women than by joining NAWBO CA Propel 2025: The Power of Resilience and Momentum.  Hosted by the National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO-CA), this event empowers women entrepreneurs to connect, grow, and thrive in their personal and professional lives. Event Highlights: Keynote Speeches: Hear inspiring stories of resilience and success from trailblazing women leaders. Workshops: Learn practical strategies to elevate your business and leadership skills. Networking Opportunities: Collaborate with extraordinary women who are shaping the future of business. Let’s support and uplift one another during Women’s History Month. Reserve your spot today: https://lnkd.in/gzdhNzFn  Date: Friday, April 11, 2025 Location: SoFi Stadium, 1001 Stadium Drive, Inglewood, CA 90301   #WomensHistoryMonth #OSDSBusinessOutreach #SmallBusiness #Momentum #Networking #WomenInBusiness 

Is your certified #SmallBusiness or #DisabledVeteranBusinessEnterprise firm looking to do business with Caltrans? Here are some tips on how to get started!     Navigate to the Caltrans website at: https://lnkd.in/gKm6TVky Here you’ll find the latest updates and contracting opportunities, guidance, and “Caltrans Bidding Connect,” your customized Caltrans bidding portal.     Review “Contractor’s Corner” for helpful links from Advertised Projects, 24-Month Advertised Look Ahead, Calendar of Upcoming Bid Openings, and Bidder’s Guide to the Business Enterprise Programs (DBE, DVBE and SBE), Contracts Under $388,000 (Minor B) and FAQs on electronic bidding. You’ll find more helpful links for guides, manuals and training under the “Guidance” tab.    If you’re ready to bid on a Caltrans contract, you’ll need to create your account on the “Caltrans Bidding Connect” portal. Once you’ve created your account make sure to “opt-in” for advertisements so a prime contractor can potentially find and do business with you!    To contact Caltrans directly, visit https://lnkd.in/e-4fy4Ub.     Our “Essential Tuesday” posts offer tips, how-to, resources and advice to help #SmallBusiness and #DisabledVeteranBusinessEnterprise firms gain an edge in state contracting. To reach OSDS call us at (916) 375-4940 or email [email protected].             #OSDSBusinessOutreach #Procurement #CalEProcure #GovernmentContracting #StateContracting        #SmallBusiness #DisabledVeteranBusinessEnterprise #CaliforniaForAll #Caltrans 

“Federal & State Government Contracting for Veterans” hosted by @Northern California Veterans Business Outreach Date: Wednesday, March 19, from 10 a.m.  – noon Registration: https://lnkd.in/gypFMPX2   “Government Contracting Panel” hosted by @Norcal Elite Service-Disabled Veteran Business Network Date: Wednesday, March 19, from 2 – 3 p.m. Registration: https://lnkd.in/gFSdkb-X “Business ReMixer, Power in Partnership” hosted by Western Regional Minority Supplier Development Council (WRMSDC), an affiliate of NMSDC Date: Wednesday, March 19, from 2 – 4:30 p.m. Registration: https://lnkd.in/ddV-dXXq   “Contracting with the State of California” (AB 2019-Session 2) hosted by California Hispanic Chambers of Commerce Date: Thursday, March 20, from 11 – 12:30 p.m. Registration: https://lnkd.in/gGAkkv6d   “Spring Small Business Resource Fair” hosted by Logan Heights Community Development Corporation Date: Thursday, March 20, from 3 – 6 p.m. Registration: https://lnkd.in/gGEXbPMN   “I’m Certified. Now What” hosted by San Diego, Orange, Imperial APEX Accelerator Date: Wednesday, March 26, from 10 a.m.  – noon Registration: https://lnkd.in/g8Qu-U6p   “Informational Session to Prepare Local Business for Certification” hosted by @County of San Mateo Office of Racial and Social Justice Date: Thursday, March 27, from 1 – 2 p.m. Registration: https://www.smcgov.org/   “Woman in Construction (WIC) Summit hosted by AGC of California Date: Monday, March 31, from 8 a.m. – 3 p.m. Registration: https://lnkd.in/g4wxeYnX   #OSDSBusinessOutreach #SmallBusiness #StateProcurement #DisabledVeteranBusinessEnterprise #Procurement

Did you know the California Department of General Services Procurement Department offers a valuable resource for procurement professionals called Broadcast Bulletins? Broadcast Bulletins are your go-to email subscription service to receive updates on policies, regulations, contracts and events from DGS. By subscribing to Broadcast Bulletins, you’ll never miss out on important policy changes, crucial updates and opportunities. It’s a simple yet powerful way to keep your procurement practices current and compliant. Here’s a quick overview of Broadcast Bulletin emails you could receive: -Policy Bulletins: Stay up to date with new or revised policies affecting procurement practices.  -Event Bulletins: Learn about upcoming events, workshops, and training sessions.  -Contract Bulletins: Get updates on contract opportunities and important changes to existing contracts.  -FI$Cal Bulletins: Receive the latest information on FI$Cal developments and updates. Ready to subscribe? Visit the link below and sign up for Broadcast Bulletins today! https://lnkd.in/gpNMd_aU Follow us and stay connected for more tips and support! Our “Essential Tuesday” posts offer tips, how-to, resources and advice to help #SmallBusiness and #DisabledVeteranBusinessEnterprise firms gain an edge in state contracting. To reach OSDS call us at (916) 375-4940 or email [email protected].   #SupplierDiversity #OSDSBusinessOutreach #SmallBusiness #DisabledVeteranBusinessEnterprise #Procurement #GovernmentContracting #ProcurementTraining  

“2025 California Supplier Diversity Symposium” hosted by Jobs Statewide Date: Thursday, March 13, from 8 a.m. – 3 p.m. Registration: https://lnkd.in/gzVgyHS4   “Small Contractor Funding and Mentor-Protege” hosted by California Office of the Small Business Advocate (CalOSBA) Date: Thursday, March 13, from 10 – 11:30 a.m.   Registration: https://lnkd.in/gMa3SQ64   “Contracting with the State of California” hosted by California Hispanic Chambers of Commerce Date: Thursday, March 13, from 11– 12:30 p.m.   Registration: https://lnkd.in/gzJzTqny   “How to Do Business with the State of CA” hosted by Norcal APEX Accelerator Date: Friday, March 14, from 9 a.m. – noon Registration: https://lnkd.in/g6HUg7ZY   “Yuba/Sutter County Procurement Summit” hosted by Northern California SBDC Date: Friday, March 14, from 9 – 11:30 a.m. Registration: https://lnkd.in/gBBvKEmc   “Federal & State Government Contracting for Veterans” hosted by @Northern California Veterans Business Outreach Date: Wednesday, March 19, from 10 a.m.  – noon Registration: https://lnkd.in/gypFMPX2   “Government Contracting Panel” hosted by @Norcal Elite Service-Disabled Veteran Business Network Date: Wednesday, March 19, from 2 – 3 p.m. Registration: https://lnkd.in/gFSdkb-X “Business ReMixer, Power in Partnership” hosted by Western Regional Minority Supplier Development Council (WRMSDC), an affiliate of NMSDC Date: Wednesday, March 19, from 2 – 4:30 p.m. Registration: https://lnkd.in/ddV-dXXq   “Contracting with the State of California” hosted by California Hispanic Chambers of Commerce Date: Thursday, March 20, from 11 – 12:30 p.m. Registration: https://lnkd.in/gGAkkv6d   “Spring Small Business Resource Fair” hosted by Logan Heights Community Development Corporation Date: Thursday, March 20, from 3 – 6 p.m. Registration: https://lnkd.in/gGEXbPMN #OSDSBusinessOutreach #SmallBusiness #StateProcurement #DisabledVeteranBusinessEnterprise #Procurement

Success in state contracting, especially for #DisabledVeteranBusinessEnterprises and #SmallBusinesses, requires building relationships with prospective buyers. These relationships are just as crucial as delivering top-notch goods and services.     One effective way to pave the path to success is to establish and maintain rapport with the SB/DVBE Advocate in a state department that buys the products and services you sell. Similar to selling in the private sector, government contracting requires persistence and multiple touchpoints to make a sale or get awarded a contract.     Reach out to your SB/DVBE Advocate every few months! Professional, ongoing communications helps your business stay top-of-mind. Remember, persistence and professionalism are key.     How to reach out effectively:  -Email: This helps you keep a record of communication.   -Introduce Yourself: Share your story and what your business does. A capability statement is a great way to do this.  -Be Professional: Respect their time by getting to the point quickly.  -Provide Updates: Let advocates know of new projects you’ve completed, when your company hits a milestone, or of seasonal products or services you sell.   -View the advocate directory at https://lnkd.in/gNqZKUT for the contact information of department advocates. The directory is updated frequently so be sure to check it often.    Follow us and stay connected for more tips and support! Our “Essential Tuesday” posts offer tips, how-to, resources and advice to help #SmallBusiness and #DisabledVeteranBusinessEnterprise firms gain an edge in state contracting. To reach OSDS call us at (916) 375-4940 or email [email protected].     #SmallBusiness #DVBE #StateContracting #BusinessTips #Networking #BusinessDevelopment #AdvocateEngagement #OSDSBusinessOutreach #DisabledVeteranBusinessEnterprise #Procurement #GovernmentContracting #ProcurementTraining 

Plan early and register today! The second annual California Diversity Symposium on March 13, from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. is a state procurement event not to be missed. ♦ State advocates will be available to talk with #SmallBusiness and #DisabledVeteranBusinessEnterprise firms during a “Lunch and Learn” session. ♦ Learn how to build your #CalEProcure profile to capture the attention of those advocates at the Cal eProcure Profile Optimization Clinic.   ♦ If your company is ready and able to help the state during emergencies, attend the Emergency Procurement breakout session. Held at the new state-of-the-art May Lee State Office Complex in Sacramento, the #CaliforniaDiversitySymposium is a great opportunity to hear from industry-leading experts about contracting opportunities in the insurance, utilities, healthcare, transportation and government sectors. For a look at the event schedule click here: Register Now: https://lnkd.in/gnXf_RK9 This event is co-hosted by the California Statewide Coalition on Diversity Initiatives, which seeks to cultivate inclusive economic opportunities for California's small and diverse businesses. #SupplierDiversity #SmallBusinessSuccess #OSDSBusinessOutreach #SmallBusiness #DisabledVeteranBusinessEnterprise #Procurement #DiversityInProcurement #StateProcurement