Guidance and Resources
By utilizing these resources, you can more effectively contribute to our shared mission. Accessing the right support not only streamlines your efforts but also strengthens our commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive business environment.
The following guidance and resources are to ensure that you have the tools and support necessary to fulfill the objectives of the Small Business First Program, making it easier to connect with certified small business and disabled veteran business enterprise and contribute to our shared mission.
- Small Business First (SBF) | Process Map
SB1 Staff Resources
- Use the State of California CaleProcure Lookup
- The State of California Cal eProcure Lookup can be used to search for certified California small and veteran businesses.
- The State of California Cal eProcure Lookup can be used to search for certified California small and veteran businesses.
- Use Explorer Professional (supplier.io) to search for small business suppliers
- Use SSO, see UCOP website to learn more on searching for suppliers
- After identifying and selecting the UC San Diego campus from the drop-down menu, search by criteria of choice.
- Encourage small businesses to get certified and register
- Participation in the SB1st program requires expanding awareness of the program and getting potentially eligible businesses to certify.
- Participation in the SB1st program requires expanding awareness of the program and getting potentially eligible businesses to certify.
- How-to-Search Video Series and trainings
What if I can’t find a Small Business or Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise?
Certain circumstances may justify not complying with SB1st, though it would otherwise apply. Examples include, but are not limited to:
- Industries where at least two (2) SBs or DVBEs are not available; or
- Business needs dictate requirements that cannot be met by a SB/DVBE.
- Unique specifications only certain suppliers can meet
In these situations, the Small Business First Waiver must be approved by the appropriate Policy Exception Authority before making a purchase or establishing a contract with a company that is not an SB/DVBE.
- Request an Exception to Policy
- Encourage Your Suppliers to Get Certified!
- Support your suppliers by letting them know they can become SB/DVBE certified by the State of California. Certification is free, simple, and fast—plus, it opens the door to valuable benefits such as increased contracting opportunities and greater visibility with state agencies.
- Learn more and refer here
Need Assistance?
- Learn about the Small Business First program.
- Read the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s).
- Study the Small Business First Resources.
All Small Business First services are provided through Services and Support. Select Budget & Finance, Get Help, and Submit a Ticket.
Under *More Specifically… type keyword “Small” for Small Business First, and make one of the following selections:
- Sourcing Assistance<
- Waiver Review & Approval
- General Support