New Program to Help Local Small Business
Takes Effect July 1

Mayor Jerry Sanders and representatives from the city's administrative office have been reaching out to local small businesses to encourage them to become certified for the city of San Diego's Small Local Business Enterprise Program, which begins July 1.

The SLBE program, which was approved by the City Council unanimously earlier this year, is designed to increase contracting opportunities on City projects to our small local business community.

"Small business is the backbone of San Diego's economy – with more than 90 percent of our businesses having few than 50 employees," said Mayor Sanders. "My office is looking at every possible avenue to help small businesses succeed and grow and add jobs."

Businesses that get certified with the city as a small or emerging local business enterprise receive a leg up when competing for city contracts.

Construction contractors receive the benefit of sheltered bids on contracts of $500,000 and below. In addition, certified small construction contractors will receive a 5 percent bid discount on contracts between $500,000 and $1million, while goods and services contractors will receive a 2 percent bid discount on their proposals.

Councilmember Tony Young said the program will help the city meet its contractor diversity goals.

"This program is a great opportunity for local small businesses, particularly good for businesses that have traditionally been excluded from the process," Young said.

Certification for the SLBE program is free for participants.Technical assistance is available to small businesses to help navigate the city contracting system; the city has been hosting bonding-assistance and SLBE workshops to encourage more participation by local small businesses. Check the Mayor's Office Blog, on the front of the News Center, for news about upcoming workshops.

Find out more about SLBE and all types of assistance available from the city of San Diego for companies of all sizes at www.sandiego.gov/directories/business.shtml.