Get certified and connected to state and utility buyers!

In response to the devastating wildfires that swept through Southern California and communities throughout the state, the Department of General Services (DGS) launched a comprehensive emergency response project to help restore and rebuild. That effort continues—and we’re calling on suppliers like you to participate in the recovery. This is a unique opportunity to contract with the State of CA as a small business.

When you attend this event, you’ll not only unlock opportunities with the State of California on this initiative but also have the opportunity to match with SoCalGas.

This event is designed to help you start your certification application process, connect directly with State and utility buyers, and engage in a sponsor appreciation reception to network with agency partners, prime contractors, and fellow businesses in a relaxed setting. It also includes a matchmaking event directly with buyers.

The Department of General Services (DGS) is actively seeking partnerships with companies like IT, engineering, real estate, environmental services, healthcare sectors, Telecommunications media services, Building and Facility Construction and Maintenance Services, Defense and Law Enforcement and Security and Safety Equipment and Supplies, Electrical Systems and Lighting and Components and Accessories and Supplies, Editorial and Design and Graphic and Fine Art Services—don’t miss your chance to be part of it!

REGISTER

MEET OUR SPEAKERS

Procurement Panel

• Marta Alejandrez-Carrera, Certification Branch Manager, Office of Small Business & DVBE Services (OSDS)
• Anne Muchiri, Supplier Diversity Project Manager, SoCalGas

Certification Workshop Team

• Marta Alejandrez-Carrera, Certification Branch Manager, Office of Small Business & DVBE Services (OSDS)
• Cookie Candelario, Certification Officer, Office of Small Business and Disabled Veteran Enterprise Services (OSDS)
• Norma Curiel, Staff Services Manager I and Certification Trainer, Office of Small Business and Disabled Veteran Enterprise Services (OSDS)
• Julio Rodriguez, Certification Officer, Office of Small Business and Disabled Veteran Enterprise Services (OSDS)

WHAT TO EXPECT

AGENDA

• 8:00 AM – 9:00 AM: Registration
• 9:00 AM to 9:20 AM: Procurement Panel Discussion
  
• 9:30 AM to 11:45 AM: Certification Workshop
• 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM:  LUNCH
• 1:15 PM to 4:00 PM: BIZMATCH
• 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM – Sponsor Appreciation Reception

MEET WITH BIZMATCH FACILITATORS

STATE ADVOCATES

• Damon Dorn, SB Outreach Coordinator, Agency: CA High-Speed Rail Authority – DGS
• Marcus Delfin, EPA, SB/DVBE Advocate, SB Liaison, Agency: CA Military Department – DGS
• Paige Johnson, Advocate, Contracts and Procurement Services, Agency: CA Department of Social Services – DGS
• Myrna Tanudjaja, Small Business Liaison, Agency: Caltrans District 7 – DGS

SOCAL GAS

• Anne Muchiri, Supplier Diversity Project Manager

PRIME CONTRACTORS

• Elizabeth Tene and Albert Tene, Prime Contractors, Company: Access General Contracting, Inc.
• Priya Pratap, Prime Contractor, Environmental Project Manager, Company: NV5

Who should attend? 

All small business owners—whether certified or not—certified SB/DVBE firms, and anyone eager to secure state contracts are welcome to join us.

Recommendations and requirements:

• Learn more about other Requirements & Information
• If you would like to learn more about getting certified, don’t miss our upcoming events:
  • Session 1: How To Do Business With The State Of California
    Wednesday, June 4, 2025 | 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM (Online)
  • Session 2: I’m Certified. Now What?
    Wednesday, June 18, 2025 | 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM (Online)
    Learn more here.

Future Sponsorships

Are you interested in sponsoring a future workshop event or webinar? Please contact Maria M. Solano at mmsolano@nlbwa-ie.org

Want to support our #NLBWAIE mission? Become a volunteer or donate to one of our causes.