Nov. 2025: I’m Certified, Now What?

View Presentation Slides Here

Getting certified as a Small Business (SB) or Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise (DVBE) is a huge milestone, but what comes next? Many small businesses complete the certification process only to find themselves unsure of how to actually use it to win government contracts.

This workshop is designed to answer that question and walk you through the practical steps to becoming a visible, competitive vendor for the State of California. We will guide you through how to optimize your Cal eProcure profile, choose effective keywords and UNSPSC codes, and use state systems to find real opportunities. You’ll also learn how to connect with SB/DVBE Advocates, research past contract awards, and navigate emergency contracting opportunities.

CA DGS Office of Small Business & DVBE Services (CA DGS OSDS)

www.dgs.ca.gov

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.