Small Business First Program
As part of UC San Diego‘s continued commitment to increase performance opportunities in our Supply Chain-led activities we are implementing the UC-wide Small Business First program beginning March 1, 2021.
Fast. Easy. Empowering...
Small Business First is a ‘set-aside’ program that increases contracting and procurement opportunities for certified Small Businesses (SB) and Disabled Veteran Business Enterprises (DVBE) by using a streamlined quotation process. The quotation-to-award process is designed to make the procurement process easier to encourage your participation.
How the Program Works
Small Business First calls for all UC contracts and procurements between $10,000 and $250,000 to be awarded to an SB or DVBE, wherever applicable. To make an award, only one quote is required for purchases below $100,000, and only two quotes are required for procurements above $100,000 up to $250,000.
Certified small businesses are welcome to participate in the program. See the suggested certifying agencies.
How to prepare to participate in the Small Business First program:
- Visit UC’s Small Business First webpage to learn about the program
- Get certified as a Small Business (SB) or Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise (DVBE) with your local certifying agency – see a sample list of SB/DVBE accepted certifications on UC’s Small Business First webpage
- Familiarize yourself with UC's Terms & Conditions to ensure you can meet them
- Subscribe to get more information:
Other ways to improve your business’s visibility with UC:
UC San Diego is committed to encouraging small, local, and disadvantaged business participation in our Supply Chain led activities.
For questions or concerns, contact the UCSD Small Business Development Office at sbdo@ucsd.edu or (858) 534-7236.