February 2020 Workshop Schedule
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
FEB. 29 - 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
FEB. 29 | 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.
FEB. 27 | Workshop Time: 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM | 121 N. LaSalle, 11th Floor, 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.
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: CHICAGO DEPARTMENT OF AVIATION (CDA)
FEB. 6 | Workshop Time: 2:00 – 3:00 PM | 121 N. LaSalle, 11th Floor, Room 1103
The City of Chicago’s two major airports (O’Hare and Midway) create more than $45 billion in annual economic activity and create 540,000 jobs for the region. This workshop focuses on aviation-specific contracting opportunities in construction, work services, operations, and maintenance.