DBE photo
By Caltrans’ DBE Program
On Feb. 20, Caltrans hosted its fourth DBE (Disadvantaged Business Enterprise) Summit at the Roebbelen Center in Roseville to share knowledge and tools with the 300 socially and economically disadvantaged small businesses that attended.
The event was an opportunity to network with a variety of participants, including state and local agencies, prime contractors and resource providers.
Business owners heard inspiring and valuable insights from California State Transportation Agency Secretary Toks Omishakin, Caltrans Director Tony Tavares, Caltrans District 3 Director Sergio Aceves, Caltrans Office of Civil Rights Deputy Director David DeLuz, and more.
Caltrans presented on “Contracting type and opportunities,” “Finding Caltrans Contract Opportunities,” “DBE Certification,” and “Small Business Development.” The California Pollution Control Financing Authority (CPCFA) presented “California Capital Access Programs.” CalOSBA shared key resources available through the Success, Capital Access, Leadership for Entrepreneurs (SCALE) network.
JP Morgan Chase hosted sessions on, “Power of Capital” and “Marketing in the Digital World.” The Department of General Services presented on “How To Work With the State” and conducted the Cal eProcure clinic, which showed attendees how to enhance their profiles and elevate their visibility to state agencies.
Attendee Diane Griffin, president of nosi.biz Inc., said she really appreciated the in-person summit. Likewise, small-business owner Kul Bhushan, of Vibnox, said, “I appreciate the effort Caltrans is making to support and engage with DBEs.”