Unlock Contract Success: Orange County’s Contracting Academy empowers and educates businesses

There’s a secret weapon that can help business owners and contractors become informed about opportunities to compete for more than $700 million worth of County-managed contracts.

Orange County’s second annual Contracting Academy on July 12 is a valuable resource that offers insights from industry experts. It's a platform that empowers underrepresented businesses with the knowledge and skills to navigate the bidding process and compete effectively, fostering growth and success.

Identifying and bidding on County solicitations can be challenging for first-timers not familiar with the ins and outs of the process. The free, half-day educational workshops are designed to provide attendees with a comprehensive overview of all aspects associated with County contracting.

For Orange County, the Academy is an opportunity to cast a wider net, attract new skilled contractors, and increase the diversity of the business community. It's a chance to welcome and support small, minority, and women-owned businesses in the hunt for some 950 term contracts per year, fostering a more inclusive and vibrant business environment.

There’s a strong interest in the business community for hands-on sessions like these. The Procurement Divisions’ inaugural Academy in 2023 was a sellout, and its “OpenGov” portal welcomed 200 new subscribers. This growing interest and participation demonstrate the use of the Academy, making you part of a thriving and expanding community.

The demand for an outreach program pleases Orange County Procurement Division Manager Carrie Mathes, whose goal is to make all contractors aware of the plethora of opportunities, both big and small.

“There is a need to reach contractors who may not have done business with Orange County before and need more guidance to navigate the process,” she said. “This academy is a powerful tool to help maintain a fair, diverse, and competitive bidding process.”

The 2024 Contracting Academy and networking opportunity will take place in person on Friday, July 12, from 7:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. In-person and virtual attendance options are available on a first-come, first-served basis. To request admission tickets, visit https://wkf.ms/3Vf8DZ8.

For access to upcoming projects, timelines or notifications for Orange County formal solicitations, please subscribe at OpenGov.