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Small Local Business Enterprise (SLBE) Program

Overview

The City of San Diego's Small Local Business Enterprise (SLBE) Program is designed to increase opportunities for qualified local small businesses to participate in City contracts. The program supports local economic development, promotes equal access to contracting opportunities, and helps small businesses build capacity and compete for City-funded projects. It helps ensure that the City does not contribute to marketplace discrimination, either directly or indirectly.

Businesses certified under the program as an SLBE or an Emerging Local Business Enterprise (ELBE) may receive advantages when pursuing City contracts.

Benefits of Certification

Certified SLBE and ELBE firms may qualify for:

  • Restricted bidding opportunities
  • Bid discounts
  • Preference points during contract evaluations
  • Increased visibility to City departments and prime contractors
  • Opportunities to participate as prime contractors, subcontractors, consultants, or suppliers

These benefits are intended to encourage greater participation of local small businesses in City contracting opportunities.

Who Should Apply?

The program is intended for small local businesses that meet the City's certification requirements and want to pursue business opportunities with the City.

Certification may be beneficial for businesses providing:

  • Construction services
  • Professional services
  • Consulting services
  • Goods and supplies
  • Other contract-based services

Certification Requirements

Before applying, businesses should review the City's program requirements and eligibility criteria to determine whether they qualify for SLBE or ELBE certification.

Helpful resources include:

How to Apply

Click Here to Register and Apply for SLBE/ELBE Certification

Step 1: Register as a Vendor

All applicants must first register in the City's online vendor portal.

Step 2: Review Application Guidance

Before starting an application, you must review the following important materials:

Step 3: Submit Your Application Online

The certification process is fully online. Both new applications and renewal applications are submitted through the City's vendor portal.

Step 4: Await Review

The City will review your application and supporting documentation to determine certification eligibility.

Required Documentation

Applicants should gather all required supporting documents before beginning the application process. The specific requirements vary depending on whether you are:

Review the appropriate checklist above to ensure all required documentation is included.

Confidentiality of Application Information

Application materials and supporting documentation submitted through the certification process are not public records and are not available for public inspection. Information is maintained confidentially to the extent permitted by law.

Certified Business Directories

Businesses seeking certified partners, subcontractors, or suppliers can access directories of certified firms, including:

These directories can help businesses identify potential teaming and subcontracting partners.

Additional Resources

The City also provides related resources and programs, including:

Businesses should also stay informed about City notices and alerts that may affect certified firms.

Contact Information

For assistance with the application process or questions regarding certification:

Phone: 619-236-6000
Email: ContactEOC@sandiego.gov

The City encourages certified and prospective businesses to pursue opportunities as prime contractors, subcontractors, consultants, and providers of goods and services on City projects.

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