January 2020 Workshop Schedule
DPS teaches over 20 Different classes on procurement and certification. To serve you better, we have organized workshops based on where a business is in their growth cycle. Register for classes at www.chicago.gov/dpsevents
FOR BUSINESSES STARTING OUT
THE ABC’S OF DBE AND ACDBE CERTIFICATION
JAN. 8 | Workshop Time: 2:00 – 3:00 PM | 121 N. LaSalle, Bid & Bond, Room 103
This workshop provides an overview of the City’s Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) and Airport Concessions Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (ACDBE) programs. Learn about the application process and benefits of certification as part of the Illinois Unified Certification process with the City of Chicago, Illinois Department of Transportation, Chicago Transit Authority, Metra, and Pace.
BUILDING CHICAGO! CONSTRUCTION CONTRACTING OVERVIEW
JAN. 9 | Workshop Time: 2:00 – 3:00 PM | 121 N. LaSalle, Bid & Bond, Room 103
Construction-focused workshop that provides an overview of the bidding process and highlights programs related to construction opportunities, including: Small Business Initiative (SBI), Mid-size Business Initiative (MBI), Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO), Apprentice Utilization Bid Preference and many more. Learn the Job Order Contract (JOC), another delivery method to procure construction services. JOC is a fixed price, competitive bid with indefinite quantity delivery method designed to quickly produce a large number of multi-trade, repair and rehabilitation projects, as well as minor new construction projects.
HOW TO NAVIGATE THE DPS WEBSITE
JAN. 15 | Workshop Time: 2:00 – 3:00 PM | 121 N. LaSalle, Bid & Bond, Room 103
The DPS website is the best place to find a wealth of resources relating to City procurement. This workshop will take you through the new look and feel of the City’s website as well as all the resources that are available and how to find them. Learn how to: locate upcoming opportunities, bid tabs, awarded contracts, identify primes and Chicago certified subcontractors, City auctions, upcoming outreach events and how to stay informed of all the latest news and updates.
JAN. 16 | Workshop Time: 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM | 121 N. LaSalle, 11th Floor, Room 1103
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 BASICS: DOING BUSINESS WITH THE CITY
JAN. 29 | Workshop Time: 3:15 – 4:15 PM | 121 N. LaSalle, Bid & Bond, Room 103
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. 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 vendor responsibilities after earning a contract with the City of Chicago.
JAN. 29 - Workshop Time: 2:00 – 3:00 PM | 121 N. LaSalle, Bid & Bond, Room 103
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, what documents are needed when submitting an application and how to avoid the most common mistakes in the process.
FOR GROWING BUSINESSES
YOUR BUSINESS IS CERTIFIED: NOW WHAT?
JAN. 23 - Workshop Time: 2:00 – 3:00 PM | 121 N. LaSalle, Bid & Bond, Room 103
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.