The Office of Public Safety Administration in partnership with the Chicago Police Department, Chicago Fire Department and Office of Emergency Management and Communications invites small business to an informational session on “Doing Business with the City of Chicago Public Safety Departments”.

When: Tuesday, June 3, 2025, 10 a.m. – 12 Noon

Where: Public Safety Headquarters, 3510 S. Michigan Avenue

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

The event will offer attendees the opportunity to:

• Learn about the City's purchasing process and how to become a certified vendor;
• Hear from government representatives about current operations and upcoming contracting opportunities; and
• Network with public safety industry partners.

Registration is required to attend. Space is limited, so register today!

Program Schedule:

10:00 a.m. – 12:00 Noon: Exhibitor Room open

Attendees can visit exhibitor tables to connect with representatives from the City of Chicago, assistant agencies and current contractors.

10:15 a.m.:  Welcome Remarks

10:30 a.m. & 11:30 a.m.: Workshops presented by the Department of Procurement Services (DPS)

12:00 Noon: Exhibitor Room Closes – Event Concluded. Thank you!

Workshop Overview:

Title: Unlocking Opportunities | A Complete Guide to City Procurement, DPS Resources, and Certification

Presenters: Chicago Department of Procurement Services

This comprehensive workshop is designed to equip businesses with the essential tools and knowledge to successfully navigate the City of Chicago's procurement process. Topics to be discussed:

1. Navigating the Buying Plan and Upcoming Opportunities

The City of Chicago’s Buying Plan is a vital tool for forecasting upcoming procurement opportunities. This section will guide you through the 15-month forecast of hundreds of opportunities across the city and 13 other government agencies. Learn how to access detailed information such as buying agencies, contract types, advertisement dates, and potential subcontracting opportunities. You’ll also explore resources for local, small, minority, and women-owned businesses. 

2. Procurement Fundamentals: Doing Business with the City

Learn the basics of becoming a successful bidder on City contracts, including an overview of the role and responsibilities of the Department of Procurement Services (DPS). Discover the various procurement methods and laws that govern the process and gain an understanding of what’s required before and after winning a city contract.

3. How to Become Certified

Get a detailed overview of the certification process for Minority-Owned, Women-Owned, Veteran-Owned, and other business classifications recognized by the City of Chicago. This segment will walk you through the steps to become a certified business, including the necessary documentation, common mistakes to avoid, and tips for completing the certification application with confidence.

Exhibitor Partners:

Getting there

FREE parking is available at the De La Salle High School lot on 35th Street between State Street and Michigan Avenue.

If traveling by transit, visit www.transitchicago.com to plan your route.  

Questions

If you require language access accommodations, need to change your registration, or have questions about the event, please email PSAcontracts@cityofchicago.org.