How to do Business with the State of California

How to do Business with the State of California

This introduction to state contracting aims to help businesses understand how to register and certify their companies with the state.

By NLBWA- IE

Select date and time

Wednesday, June 4 · 5 - 7:30pm PDT

Location

Online

About this event


Are you a small business whose interested in learning more about getting certified? Don’t miss this valuable opportunity to learn what it takes to get certified and work with Utilities and the State of California!

Join our engaging three-part virtual and in-person series designed to educate small businesses about the State of California’s certification process and how to compete for state and utility contracts. You'll recieve information on how to get certified, connect with procurement professionals and avoid common pitfalls.

Learning about the certification process is the first step—let us teach you what it takes to get certified with confidence and clarity!

Then, join us for step 2 on June 10th and begin the process of getting certified as well as meet and connect with state and utility buyers at our in-person California State Matchmaking Summit: From Certification to Connection with State and Utility Buyers. You can purchase your ticket here.

Lastly, join us for step 3 to learn how to leverage the buyer connections you made to turn them into contracting opportunities for your small business!


Session 1 (ONLINE): How To Do Business With The State Of California Wednesday, June 4, 2025 | 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Learn the essentials of working with the state:

  • SB/DVBE certification Using Cal eProcure
  • Finding bid opportunities
  • Researching past purchases
  • Connecting with SB/DVBE Advocates
  • Understanding Commercially Useful Function
  • Available business resources

Session 2 (IN -PERSON): California State Matchmaking Summit: From Certification to Connection with State & Utility Buyers | June 10, 2025 | 8:00 AM -6:30 PM | Delta Hotel by Marriott, 2200 E Holt Ave, Ontario CA 91761

This event is designed to help you start your certification application process, connect directly with State and utility buyers, and engage in a sponsor appreciation reception to network with agency partners, prime contractors, and fellow businesses in a relaxed setting as well as a matchmaking event. Learn more and register below.

Register here


Session 3 (ONLINE): I’m Certified. Now What? Wednesday, June 18, 2025 | 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Take your knowledge further:

  • Acquisition methods
  • Exempt contracts
  • Leveraged Procurement Agreements
  • Procurement do’s and don’ts.
  • Commercially Useful Function
  • Practical resources to support you

    Who Should Attend? All small business owners—whether certified or not—as well as certified SB/DVBE firms and anyone eager to secure state contracts are welcome to join us.

Elevate your business to new heights! Enhance your contracting journey and unlock exciting avenues for growth and success!

*Please note: This registration page is for the online portion of the event series only. To complete your registration for the in person event please visit this link.

Organized by

NLBWA- IE Mission

To promote, develop and support the growth of business owners and professionals by embracing all diverse cultures.

Purpose

To create more representation, visibility, support, and business development, networking, and mentoring opportunities for women of color in the world of business and the executive levels in the Inland Empire.

NLBWA-IE draws together business owners, entrepreneurs, and professionals who offer success tools.

Have questions about NLBWA?  visit https://nlbwa-ie.org/