Bill > SB781

This bill aims to support small businesses by introducing several key initiatives. First, it requires the Small Business Advocate to collaborate with local agencies in developing strategies to increase small business participation in local procurement opportunities. The bill authorizes local agencies to establish a Small Business Utilization Program (SBUP) designed to boost small business involvement in local government contracts. Under this program, agencies would be required to implement a small business certification process, set a minimum goal of 25% procurement participation for small businesses, and develop policies to support small business competitiveness, such as unbundling larger contracts and streamlining bidding processes. Additionally, the bill modifies the California Small Business Technical Assistance Program by relaxing some eligibility criteria for grants in fiscal years 2025-2028, allowing more flexibility for applicants with disrupted federal contracts. The bill also permits up to 25% of awarded funds to be used for outreach efforts and limits direct program administration expenses to 15%. The goal is to provide more opportunities and support for small businesses, particularly those in underserved communities, by reducing barriers to government contract participation and providing technical assistance.

Budget and Finance, Business and Industry, Government Affairs

https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billStatusClient.xhtml?bill_id=202520260SB781