Regional Small Business Utilization Center
Building Connections, Driving Growth in Regional Infrastructure
For Contractors:
For Public Entities
Upcoming Events and Workshops
Connect & Construct: Network with the RSBUC!
April 30 | 2pm – 4pm PT
On behalf of the Regional Small Business Utilization Center (RSBUC), we’re excited to share that an in-person networking event is happening on April 30! In partnership with Associated General Contractors (AGC) of California and in sponsorship with Hensel Phelps, join us at the Railyards to connect with Subcontractors, Primes, General Contractors, Public Agencies, and more about contracting opportunities in the construction industry and related areas.
BizBoost Coffee Meetup
Bi-Weekly Sessions from 9am – 10:30am
Calling all entrepreneurs who want to launch their business but aren’t sure where to begin. BizBoost is a bi-weekly meetup where local entrepreneurs meet with Business Development Specialists to launch business ideas with confidence. Attendees will receive templates and step-by-step guidance to create business plans.
Capital Regional Small Business Week
May 4 – 10
Starting on May 4, events are hosted across the Greater Sacramento area by non-profits and agencies that support small businesses at any stage of development. The majority of events are free to join! Check out the schedule below to learn about resource fairs, conferences, pitch events, networking, pop-up marketplaces, and more. Capital Region Small Business Week is powered by SMUD.
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.
DGS Small Business Certification & SMUD Vendor Registration Workshop
May 22 | 10am – 12pm
SMUD is partnering with the CA Department of General Services (DGS) to bring you this free workshop and provide hands-on technical assistance for on-the-spot small business certification from the DGS. SMUD’s Supplier Education & Economic Development team will help you register as a potential vendor and determine whether you qualify for small business bid incentives!
*Make sure to review the registration page as there are required materials to bring to the workshop.
SMUD Procurement Writing 101
May 27 | 10:30am – 12pm
This free workshop is designed for individuals who are new to writing bids/proposals for contracts. SMUD’s Supplier Education & Economic Development (SEED) team will help you better understand the RFP process, discuss common mistakes, and explore the steps in writing successful responses. This workshop is recommended for those who have already attended the event, How to do Business with SMUD.
Small/Underrepresented Business (SUB) Summit
June 3 | 8am – 5:30pm
The Small/Underrepresented Business (SUB) Summit, in partnership with the Regional Small Business Utilization Center (SBUC), is a one-day event on June 3 in Sacramento designed to connect, educate, and empower small and underrepresented contractors. Open to the entire construction community, the summit features networking, matchmaking, a contracting marketplace, and expert-led sessions focused on business growth and opportunity.
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.
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:
- Procurement training
- One-on-one consulting to improve capacity and competitiveness
- Certification support to meet public contracting requirements
- 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.
Sponsors
