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

Upcoming Events and Workshops

Small BusinessCertification Workshop

Monday, August 11| 10:30 am – 12:30 pm | 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 Supplier Education and Economic Development (SEED) program
  • Gain valuable information about the benefits of certification
  • Network with other local businesses

Register

Proposal Writing 101

August 14 | 10:30am – noon | SMUD Headquarters | Arden Room | 6201 S Street, Sacramento

Get ready to learn about:

  • Proposal strategy planning
  • Proposal writing best practices
  • General government contracting tips
  • Our Supplier Education and Economic Development (SEED) contracting incentive program

Register

Meet the Buyers & Business Resource Expo

August 26 | 7:30 – 11am | SMUD Headquarters | Arden Room | 6201 S Street, Sacramento

Join us for this FREE hybrid event! Register now to learn about SMUD contracting, programs and rebates for your business!

  • Meet procurement representatives from SMUD and local public agencies like the Department of General Services (DGS), Sacramento County, Regional Transit and more.
  • Attend panel presentations to hear from our buyers and contract managers. Presentations are available in person and online.

Register

Level Up Your Construction Business in 8-Weeks

Join AGC of California’s Construction Education Foundation for an intensive, 8-week hybrid training with in-person and virtual sessions designed to help Small and Underrepresented Businesses (SUBs) strengthen their operations, win more work, and build lasting connections with general contractors in Sacramento, Placer, and Yolo counties.

Dates: July 22 – September 16. Sessions will be held from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM, except for the final session on September 16, which will run from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM.

Location: Hybrid (Virtual and in-person sessions) in West Sacramento at the AGC Office. The first and last sessions (July 22 and September 16) are the only in-person sessions.

Apply

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. 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

Sponsors