Small Business FAQ

Small Business Information & Resources

1. How does the University of California define a small business?

A Small Business is an independently owned and operated concern certified, or certifiable, as a small business by the Federal Small Business Administration (SBA), by the State of California Department of General Services Office of Small Business & Disabled Veteran Business Enterprises, and any other recognized certifying agencies or councils. 

See this short list of accepted certifying agencies for our Small Business First program.

2. Does the University certify small, local or diverse businesses?

The University does not maintain its own certification program for small or diverse businesses but there are hundreds of certification programs nationwide. Please refer to the certification resources listed in Question #1.

3. How can my business supply goods/services to the University?

For starters, please visit: How to Do Business With Us.

To participate in bidding activities with UC, suppliers must register with CalUsource – our sourcing-to-contract e-procurement platform. Registering in CalUsource offers you the opportunity to participate in systemwide, multi-campus or campus-specific bidding activities.

Also, register with SupplierOne - a supplier search platform used by the University.

Please also explore UC's 'Small Business First' program for additional guidance and resources.

4. Where can I find current UC solicitations and other bid/business opportunities?

To view University of California bidding opportunities, visit our Public Bid Site. All UC systemwide and individual campus bid opportunities are posted here.

Please also reach out to the Supplier Diversity Coordinator or Small Business Officer (pdf) at the UC campus closest to your location.

Also, visit individual UC Campus Procurement websites for specific information about campus procurement operations.

5. What do I need to know about legal/insurance requirements for University business?

6. Where can I find more available community and business development resources?

Among the many resources available to small, local and diverse businesses are government outreach programs and coalitions of business leaders, community organizations and other advocate groups. Here are a few to get started:

7. Where can I get more information?

Please contact your closest Supplier Diversity Coordinator or Small Business Officer (pdf).

Please also check out UC's 'Small Business First' program for additional information.