Regional Small Business Utilization Center

REGIONAL SMALL BUSINESS UTILIZATION CENTER (SBUC)

The Regional SBUC is committed to driving inclusive economic growth by empowering small and diverse contractors to succeed in public procurement. We aim to build a stronger, more equitable infrastructure ecosystem by bridging the gap between opportunity and readiness.

 

 

Building Connections, Driving Growth in Regional Infrastructure

Through partnerships with the California Office of the Small Business Advocate, Sierra Health Foundation, and SMUD, the Regional SBUC prepares contractors and subcontractors to compete for public infrastructure and construction projects while helping public entities and primes connect with qualified small businesses operating in Sacramento Yolo, and Placer counties. This program is scheduled to launch in early 2025.

For Contractors:

Get Project Ready

For Public Entities

Access Qualified Subcontractors

The RSBUC offers program participants a platform that helps businesses connect with contract opportunities through matchmaking, a curated list of bids and requests for proposals (RFPs), and personalized support through both artificitial intelligence (AI) and subject matter experts.

Learn more

Schedule 1:1 Consultation

Upcoming Events and Workshops

FREE Contracting Workshop: How to Do Business with SMUD

Tuesday, February 10, 2026 | 9:00am ONLINE

This workshop is hosted by SMUD’s Supplier Education and Economic Development (SEED) team and will provide you with the opportunity to learn about:

  • SMUD’s contracting process
  • Small-Business bid incentives
  • Open and upcoming contracting opportunities
  • How to connect with SMUD’s buying team
  • Network with other potential vendors
  • Gain valuable tips on the process

Register

Proposal Writing 101

Wednesday, February 25, 2026 | 11:30 am – 12:30 pm | Arden Room | 6201 S Street in Sacramento, CA 95817

Get ready to:

  • Learn key tips for winning contracts, whether you’re new or experienced
  • Understand SMUD’s contracting process with clear and practical advice
  • Review real examples of successful and unsuccessful proposals
  • Avoid common mistakes and present strong, effective bids.
  • Boost your confidence and skills with actionable best practices.
  • Connect with fellow suppliers and grow your contracting network.

Register

 

Small Business Certification Workshop

Thursday, April 2 | 9 – 11:00 a.m. SMUD Headquarters | Arden Room | 6201 S Street, Sacramento

• Get your small business certification on-the-spot!
• Register in our contracting portal
• Learn how to qualify for our small business incentive program (SEED)
• Gain valuable information about the bene ts of certification
• Network with other local businesses

Register

Contracting & Funding Opportunities

SMUD Bid Opportunities

SMUD has over $20 million* in bid opportunities available now, so don’t miss out and view current opportunities here. Through the SEED (Supplier Education and Economic Development) program, SMUD also provides incentives to local small businesses that participate in SMUD’s competitive bid process – visit SMUD’s Small Business Contract Opportunities here for more information.

*Amount as of April 7, 2025 and subject to change

SMUD Shine Award Application

Nonprofit organizations are invited to apply for a Shine award for local projects that will impact the community through inclusive collaborations and equitable strategies. SMUD is seeking proposals that support zero carbon workforce development, environmental justice and equity, inclusive economic development, and STEM education. Click below for additional information and to view the schedule for online information sessions occurring in April and May.

Learn More

Contractor and Subcontractor Services

The Regional SBUC provides targeted support to construction and infrastructure contractors and subcontractors. Whether you’re looking to bid on public projects, navigate complex certification processes, or build capacity, we provide the resources to help you succeed.

Services include:

  1. Procurement training
  2. One-on-one consulting to improve capacity and competitiveness
  3. Certification support to meet public contracting requirements
  4. Contract matchmaking services to connect you with local opportunities

Stay tuned for updates on training sessions and valuable tools to support your business.

Services for Public Entities and Primes

The Regional SBUC supports public entities and primes in meeting their project needs while promoting inclusive economic growth. Our network of pre-qualified contractors and subcontractors spans construction and related industries, providing you access to partners ready to deliver on local projects.

Regional SBUC Membership $5,000

Become a SBUC member and access the following benefits:

  • Access to Qualified Suppliers: Direct access to a pool of contractors/subcontractors across various industries.
  • Customized Contract Matchmaking: Tailored support to match your procurement needs with local subcontractors through our Diversity Procure platform.
  • Visibility and Recognition: Recognition as a regional leader in promoting inclusive economic development and supporting diverse local businesses in the region.

Find Qualified Subcontractors Today

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