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:

For Public Entities

Upcoming Events and Workshops

RSBUC Connect & Construct Webinar Series

Join the RSBUC webinar series for valuable insights on public contracting in the construction industry and related areas. Upcoming session dates and times are provided below.

Webinar 2: How to Respond to a RFP: Elements for a Successful Proposal
Date: Weds, Jun 11 from 11am – 12pm

Webinar 3: Show Me the Money: Creative Funding & Financing for Construction-related Projects
Date: Wed, Jun 18 from 11am – 12pm

Webinar 4: Managing Your Team: HR & Admin Essentials for Recruitment, Retention, Compliance, and More
Date: Weds, Jun 25 from 11am – 12pm

Register

Procurement Faire

June 12 from 9am – 12pm
This is a networking event for small businesses interested in procurement. This is your opportunity to meet face-to-face with government agencies across federal, state, local, and public agencies.

Register

Marketing Essentials: Advanced Training

June 17 from 10am – 12pm

Are you wondering how best to market your Veteran-owned Business? Marketing Essentials presents some of the most effective marketing activities available to small business owners.

This two-hour workshop will explore essential marketing concepts and how to apply them to your business. During the class you will see real world examples of Veteran-owned businesses that have successfully grown their businesses by applying these concepts. The workshop is designed to provide valuable insights for those just starting or those who have marketing experience already.

This is an online class. The Zoom link will be emailed one day prior to event and/or upon registration.

Register

SacRT Transit Idea Exchange Workshop

June 25 from 6pm – 7:30pm

Why do you ride transit? What would make you more likely to ride transit? How can transit improve our communities? If you have thoughts about these questions and live in South Sacramento, SacRT wants to hear from you! You’re invited to the next in SacRT’s series of Transit Idea Exchange Workshops to hear directly from the community.

Come discuss how transit shapes our daily life and help design the future of mobility in our region! RSVPs are requested by emailing marketing@sacrt.com or filling out this form.

Location: Pannell Center, 2450 Meadowview Road, Sacramento

How to do Business with SMUD

July 8 from 11:30am – 12:30pm

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

  • SMUD’s contracting process
  • Small business incentives
  • Open and upcoming contracting opportunities
  • How to connect with SMUD’s buying team
  • Network with other potential vendors
  • Gain valuable tips for submitting bids

Register

SMUD 2025 Rate Proposal Workshops & Hearings

SMUD’s Chief Executive Officer and General Manager’s Reports and Recommendation on Rates and Services proposes changes to electricity rates, which include a 3% increase in rates in 2026 and 2027 for residential and non-residential customers. Members of the public are invited to ask questions and provide feedback about the proposed rate changes at hybrid meetings hosted via Zoom and at SMUD Headquarters Auditorium.

View more information below, including the schedule for public workshops, hearings, and the final decision at SMUD’s Board meeting.

Learn More

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