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

INTRODUCTION TO EPROCUREMENT
MAR. 19 - Workshop Time: 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM | 121 N. LaSalle, 11th Floot, 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.

HOW TO BECOME CERTIFIED
MAR. 25 - 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.

PROCUREMENT BASICS: DOING BUSINESS WITH THE CITY
MAR. 25 - 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.

BUILDING CHICAGO! CONSTRUCTION CONTRACTING OVERVIEW
MAR. 26 - 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.

FOR GROWING BUSINESSES

PROFESSIONAL DECLARATION OF ELIGIBILITY (PDE) FOR CERTIFICATION APPLICATIONS
MAR. 4 - Workshop Time: 2:00 – 3:00 PM | 121 N. LaSalle, 11th Floor, Room 1103
Recommended for Attorneys and Accountants. The Professional Declaration of Eligibility (PDE) is an innovative way of allowing qualified attorneys and CPAs to
review, verify and attest that an applicant meets the requirements to become certified with the City of Chicago for one of the following certification programs: Minority-Owned Business Enterprise (MBE) or Women-Owned Business Enterprise (WBE). This workshop will outline who qualifies to use the PDE program, and who is qualified to submit a PDE application.

WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT INCENTIVES & PROGRAMS
MAR. 11 - Workshop Time: 2:00 – 3:00 PM | 121 N. LaSalle, 11th Floor, Room 1103
The City of Chicago has created numerous initiatives to significantly increase the number of skilled residents prepared to work in growing industries. Ensuring that disadvantaged populations have access to employment opportunities in Chicago is a key priority. This workshop will cover the Project Area Resident Ordinance and local hiring requirements, apprenticeship utilization and ex-offender bid incentives. Experts from the Department of Family and Support Services and Chicago Cook Workforce Partnership will feature programs they offer.

FIRST LOOK SERIES

On the 1st Thursday of the month, the “First Look” series rotates User Department subject matter experts highlighting operational needs and upcoming contracting opportunities.

FIRST LOOK: DEPARTMENT OF WATER MANAGEMENT (DWM)
MAR. 5 - Workshop Time: 2:00 – 3:00 PM | 121 N. LaSalle, 11th Floor, Room 1103
DWM will review the ambitious 10-year Capital Improvement Plan, opportunities in water and sewer main replacement, facilities modernization for engineering and construction projects. These contracts, both term agreements and standalone contracts will be available to bid.

COMMUNITY RESOURCES & OPPORTUNITIES - ALL LEVEL

GOLDMAN SACHS: 10,000 SMALL BUSINESS INFORMATION SESSION
MAR. 12 - Workshop Time: 2:00 – 3:00 PM | 121 N. LaSalle, Bid & Bond, Room 103
Attend this workshop to learn more about this innovative program that can take your business to the next level. Learn what it takes to grow a business, how to increase your staff, create effective marketing strategies, and develop important business relationships. This class with teach you how to apply for this free, competitive application program sponsored by the Goldman Sachs Foundation.

WORKING WITH ASSIST AGENCIES
MAR. 18 - Workshop Time: 2:00 – 3:00 PM | 121 N. LaSalle, 11th Floor, Room 1103
City of Chicago Assist Agencies are not-for-profit agencies and chambers of commerce that represent small, local, minority, women, veteran, and disadvantaged- owned businesses within Chicago’s diverse communities. They offer resources to help businesses at every stage of their growth cycle as well as connect prime contractors with certified firms for subcontracting opportunities. NOTE: agencies vary each session.

Visit www.chicago.gov/dpsevents for updates.