We are now offering our workshops virtually. To request an accommodation, please contact DPS Public Affairs at dps.accommodations@cityofchicago.org. Join us in October for the following workshops:

YOUR BUSINESS IS CERTIFIED: NOW WHAT?

Wednesday, November 3, 2021 | 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM

Your business is certified, what are your next steps? This workshop will provide valuable information to newly certified firms on how to compete for City contracts as well as provide information on resources available to certified firms. Are you prepared to meet with prime contractors? Have you considered joint venturing on contracting opportunities? Are you attending pertinent networking events? Come hear advice from subject matter experts to better market your business, compete for, and earn City contracts.

HOW TO BECOME CERTIFIED

Wednesday, November 10, 2021 | 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM

Wednesday, December 1, 2021 | 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM

DPS is the certifying agency for the following certifications: Minority-Owned Business Enterprise (MBE), Women-Owned Business Enterprise (WBE), Veteran-Owned Business (VBE), Business Enterprise for People with Disabilities (BEPD), Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) and Airport Concessions Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (ACDBE). This workshop will provide detailed information on who is qualified to be a Chicago certified firm. Learn out what documents are needed when submitting an application and how to avoid the most common mistakes in the certification process. Subject matter experts will be on-hand to answer all your questions about common certification topics.

INTRODUCTION TO ePROCUREMENT 101

Thursday, November 18, 2021 | 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM

Thursday, December 9, 2021 | 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM

DPS is continuing on the next phase of start-to-finish purchasing modernization via the implementation of a comprehensive eProcurement system. eProcurement applies digital technology to the acquisition of goods and services. It will allow DPS to collaborate with City Departments to create solicitations and contracts online, greatly reducing the time it takes to complete procurements. Come watch a demonstration and learn about iSupplier registration, how vendors will submit bids and proposals online, and how to view contracts and payments.

PROCUREMENT FUNDAMENTALS: DOING BUSINESS WITH THE CITY

Thursday, December 2, 2021 | 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM

Do you have questions about how to become a successful bidder on City contracting opportunities? Unsure where to begin? This informational workshop highlights the role and responsibility of DPS in the City’s purchasing process. Come learn about different procurement methods and the laws which govern the procurement process. Once completed, you will better understand what it takes before you start the bidding process and your responsibilities after you have won a contract with the City of Chicago.

Click here to download the 2021 November & December workshop schedule