Every Place Counts Welcomes Diversity
We are always seeking diverse suppliers to join us in servicing clients and building the transportation infrastructure the Inland Empire deserves. It is our hope that our Supplier Diversity Program attracts qualified small and diverse suppliers to support our community's needs. We encourage diverse companies to explore new possibilities with us.
Why Supplier Diversity Matters
Diverse supply chains deliver more innovation, competitive pricing, and resilient project delivery. Different perspectives lead to better solutions for our communities.
Value and Opportunities
Promoting a diverse supplier base enhances innovation and value within the industry. It is mutually beneficial, providing growth and development opportunities and the exchange of distinct ideas from multiple perspectives.
Community
We recognize the importance of businesses reflecting the communities they serve and strongly encourage local businesses to register via our supplier registration portal. When infrastructure projects are built by the community they serve, trust grows.
Empowerment
We seek to empower historically disadvantaged groups. By working with certified diverse suppliers, we are ultimately seeking to ensure a brighter economic future for people of all backgrounds.
Federal Compliance
Many transportation projects require DBE participation goals. Our program ensures compliance while exceeding minimum requirements through genuine partnership and meaningful engagement.
Who is Eligible for Our Supplier Diversity Program?
In order to be eligible for our Supplier Diversity Program, a company must meet the following criteria:
U.S. Citizen Ownership
The business must be majority owned by U.S. citizens.
Majority Owned and Operated by One of the Following Groups
Racial or Ethnic Minority
HUBZone Located Business
If your company is located in a Historically Underutilized Business Zone (HUBZone), you are eligible for our Supplier Diversity Program regardless of ownership demographics.
Accepted Certifications
We recognize and actively seek businesses with the following diversity certifications. Don't have one yet? See our certification resources below to get started.
Minority Business Enterprise
Businesses owned by ethnic minorities including African American, Hispanic, Asian, and Native American entrepreneurs.
Women Business Enterprise
Businesses that are at least 51% owned, controlled, and operated by women.
Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise
Businesses owned by veterans with service-connected disabilities, honoring those who served our country.
Disadvantaged Business Enterprise
Small businesses owned by socially and economically disadvantaged individuals, certified under USDOT programs.
LGBT Business Enterprise
Businesses that are at least 51% owned by LGBT individuals, certified by the NGLCC.
Small Business Enterprise
Certified small businesses meeting federal size standards for their industry classification.
HUBZone Certified
Businesses located in Historically Underutilized Business Zones, promoting economic development in distressed areas.
8(a) Business Development
SBA program for small disadvantaged businesses providing access to federal contracting opportunities.
Certification Resources
Suppliers who meet the requirements listed above are strongly encouraged to obtain certifications from one of the following organizations:
National Minority Suppliers Development Council (NMSDC)
The premier certifying body for minority-owned businesses in the United States.
Women's Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC)
The largest third-party certifier of women-owned businesses in the U.S.
U.S. Business Leadership Network (USBLN)
Disability Supplier Diversity Program supporting businesses owned by people with disabilities.
U.S. Pan Asian American Chamber of Commerce (USPAACC)
Certifying body for Asian American and minority-owned businesses.
WEConnect International
Global network connecting women-owned businesses to qualified buyers around the world.
www.weconnectinternational.orgDepartment of Veterans Affairs - Center for Veterans Enterprise
Federal resource for veteran-owned and service-disabled veteran-owned businesses.
www.vetbiz.va.govFederal Government
Federal certification programs
Local Government
State and local certification
DD Form 214
Military discharge documentation
How to Join Our Program
Register
Create your supplier profile and indicate your diversity certifications. Upload documentation for verification.
Get Verified
Our team reviews your certifications and approves your profile. We verify directly with certifying agencies.
Receive Opportunities
Get notified about RFPs matching your capabilities. Diverse suppliers receive priority notifications for relevant projects.
Win Contracts
Submit competitive proposals and win contracts. We provide mentorship and support throughout the bidding process.
Ready to Partner With Us?
We look forward to working with diverse suppliers and together helping to eliminate the disadvantages that today hinder the potential of qualified individuals and businesses. Together we can better serve our communities and bring innovation to a whole new level.
Not certified yet? Visit our Small Business Supplier Program