How to Do Business with the State of CA
Tap into the 4th largest economy in the world with California State contracting!
California state agencies purchase a vast range of goods and services – everything from construction and fencing to marketing and pest control. If you’re a small business, there’s a good chance the state is already buying what you offer and they’re always looking for more certified suppliers to support local economies.
Join us in Fort Bragg for a practical, interactive training that covers certification, selling to the state, and prevailing wage basics tied to public works projects. Whether you are just beginning to explore government contracting or looking to strengthen your existing approach, this workshop offers clear guidance, real-world context, and opportunities to connect directly with state agencies and resource partners.
Agenda Highlights:
- Doing Business with the State of California – Presented by CA DGS OSDS: Learn how to get certified and sell to the State of California.
- Prevailing Wages 101 – Presented by Norcal APEX Accelerator: Understand the basics of prevailing wage requirements and compliance on public works projects
- One-on-One Networking – Meet with representatives from agencies like CA Dept. of General Services and more.
Network with State Agencies:

CA DGS Office of Small Business & DVBE Services (CA DGS OSDS)
The CA Department of General Services Office of Small Business and DVBE Services (CA DGS OSDS) commits to helping small, diverse and disabled veteran businesses thrive. OSDS assists businesses with certification and access to procurement opportunities through outreach, education and advocacy. OSDS also works to ensure the state as a whole and each department and agency meets the goal of spending 25% of contract dollars with California certified small businesses and 3% with disabled veteran business enterprises.
Registration Cost: FREE
*Seats may be limited
Location: IN PERSON – Fort Bragg, CA
Tall Guy Brewing
362 N Franklin St, Fort Bragg, CA 95437
Event Contact: Norcal APEX Accelerator
P: (707) 267-7561
E: info@apexnorcal.org
This no-cost training event is hosted by

Norcal APEX Accelerator
Northern California APEX Accelerator is a government-funded nonprofit formed to help small businesses find, bid on, and win contracts with federal, state, local, and tribal agencies.
This No-Cost Training Event is Co-Hosted By

CA DGS Office of Small Business & DVBE Services (CA DGS OSDS)
The CA Department of General Services Office of Small Business and DVBE Services (CA DGS OSDS) commits to helping small, diverse and disabled veteran businesses thrive. OSDS assists businesses with certification and access to procurement opportunities through outreach, education and advocacy. OSDS also works to ensure the state as a whole and each department and agency meets the goal of spending 25% of contract dollars with California certified small businesses and 3% with disabled veteran business enterprises.

West Business Development Center
West Business Development Center is a nonprofit, business development organization providing no cost business advisory services and workshops to rising entrepreneurs and existing small business owners who want to grow their business and create jobs in their communities. With a focus on startup planning, capital infusion, financial literacy and digital marketing, we help business owners succeed in business.

Mendocino SBDC
Mendocino SBDC’s mission is to empower now and next-generation entrepreneurs with a prepared, growth mindset – through transformative insights, resources, and guidance. Creating two-thirds of net new jobs and driving U.S. innovation and competitiveness, small businesses are the lifeblood of the U.S. economy. SBDC prides itself on knowing that for each business we help, there is a family one step closer to realizing their potential. The work of the Mendocino SBDC contributes to the greater impact in the Northern California region – through new businesses, good jobs, and community impact.