Empowering Minority-Owned Businesses: A 101 Guide to Contract Bidding Success
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San Bernardino, CA – The San Bernardino County Equity Element Group (SBC Equity Element Group), in collaboration with the County of San Bernardino Purchasing Department, has created a workshop series designed to increase the number of minority-owned businesses working with the County.
The goal of the event, “Empowering Minority-Owned Businesses: Your 101 Guide to Contract Bidding Success,” is to equip participants with the skills and knowledge necessary for success in contract bidding.
“The SBC Equity Element Group is committed to creating a more equitable and inclusive San Bernardino County. The County spends $6.4 billion yearly on salaries, infrastructure, and procurement. These workshops are designed to help people of color access and increase the number and amount of contracts they obtain from the procurement process,” said Rev. George Lamb, chair of the SBC Equity Element Group.
Workshop Objectives:
- Understanding and Managing ePro: Attendees will learn how to register, manage their vendor accounts, reset credentials, and navigate the ePro system to search for open bids.
- Review Bid Proposals and Ask Questions: The workshop will cover County bid request templates, completion of the Local Vendor Self-Certification Form, and strategies for effectively posting questions to clarify bid requirements.
- Respond to Bids Successfully: Participants will master the process of creating and submitting precise quotes in ePro while avoiding common pitfalls.
- Businesses can register online with ePro at the Purchasing Department website at: https://wp.sbcounty.gov/purchasing/vendor-registration/
Workshop Dates and Locations
- January 21, 2025, 4 PM – 7 PM
- San Bernardino County Government Center 385 N Arrowhead Ave, San Bernardino, CA
- January 28: To Be Determined
- January 30: To Be Determined
“We are committed to increasing the number of local and minority-owned businesses contracting with San Bernardino County,” said San Bernardino County Director of Purchasing, Pete Mendoza.
“Under Pete’s leadership, the Purchasing Department has not only received the Excellence in Procurement Achievement Award from the National Procurement Institute in both 2022 and 2023 but also a total of four NACo (National Association of Counties) Achievement Awards in 2023,” said County Chief Executive Officer Luther Snoke.
“It has been an honor to lead the great team of professionals serving in the County Purchasing Department for the past two years,” Mendoza said. “I look forward to continuing the outstanding work we’ve been doing while growing our skills to meet the ever-evolving needs of the county and the communities we serve.”
“Don’t miss the opportunity to empower your business and enhance your bidding skills. Click [here] to register (link pending),” said Rev. Lamb.
Contact Sandra Abarca at (909) 387-4261 for more information.
For additional information about the SBC Equity Element Group, contact Info@SBCEEG.org.
About The San Bernardino County Equity Element Group
The SBC Equity Element Group’s mission is to identify and address systemic inequities within San Bernardino County. It focuses on creating a more just and equitable society for all residents, particularly Black residents and people of color. The Group strives to dismantle barriers, promote inclusivity, and empower marginalized communities through data-driven strategies and community-centered solutions. We believe that Equity Elevates Everyone.