November 11, 2020   |   ISSUE #45
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FROM OUR PROGRAM ADMINISTRATOR

During this time of unprecedented social turmoil and divisiveness in the midst of a global pandemic, it is vital to recognize the veterans who fought bravely to protect our American democracy – military veterans and veterans in the fight for social and economic justice. When our democratic processes are under unabated internal attack, we must be as brave as these veterans have been and stand up to fight for and protect “liberty and justice for all.”

History has proven that there is no liberty or justice for all in any dictatorship, nor in social systems that reserve the rights and privileges of full citizenship only for a select group. The best way of honoring those who have fought for our country is to do all we can to make this country a more just, sustainable and inclusive one – ensuring that we continue to progress as a nation, rather than stagnate and crumble under the weight of glorified oppression. Merriwether & Williams Insurance Services has been a tireless champion of providing equal opportunities to veterans, women, people of color, disabled and other underrepresented groups, particularly in the field of public works contracting, and we will continue our work in collaboration with like-minded partners to ensure a better future for all. We know first-hand that in diversity, there is strength, creativity and resilience beyond measure. Only when all areas of our economic, social and governing structures fully and accurately reflect our beautifully diverse population will the United States embody its founding principle of extending liberty and justice to all – and only then will our country live up to its truly great potential. 

Our Contractor Development and Bonding Programs equip contractors with the tools and resources needed to navigate through the many obstacles to obtaining public construction contracts.  In addition to this newsletter's ongoing postings of Program workshops, contractor bids, opportunities and events, in this issue, we have listed other services and support resources available specifically for veteran-owned businesses and have highlighted one of our local veteran-owned contracting businesses, Escobar Construction, which has benefited from participating in L.A. Metro's Contractor Development and Bonding Program (CDBP). We've also shared a link to this quarter's issue of Veteran's Magazine, featuring another veteran participant of L.A. Metro's CDBP, as well as some other great content about veteran-owned businesses.

Whether you are currently certified as a Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise (DVBE), a Veteran Business Enterprise (VBE), are interested in becoming certified as either, or are a non-veteran contractor, we invite you to reach out to our Program staff to learn more about the free guidance and technical assistance we provide.
 
– Ingrid Merriwether, President & CEO, Merriwether & Williams Insurance Services

CDABP/CDBP-SPONSORED EVENTS

Navigating City Contracting Opportunities with Councilmember Bob Blumenfield
 

The City of Los Angeles’ Contractor Development and Bonding Program (CDABP) is designed to assist contractors with their bonding capacity and business growth. In this virtual webinar, participants will hear first-hand from CDABP and City of Los Angeles Department representatives about the program and upcoming construction project opportunities.

This is a free webinar for contractors who are:
• Interested in doing business with the City
• Would like to be SBE, MBE, DVBE, DBE, LBE certified
• Looking to grow or obtain bonding
• Interested to learn about upcoming Public Works construction opportunities

DATE: Monday, November 30 at 4:00 pm
View Flyer
Learn More & Register

CDBP/CDABP NEWS

Metro’s Contractor Development and Bonding Program (CDBP) hosted a Virtual Outreach Workshop on Tuesday, October 20th. The workshop was held via Zoom with Supervisor Janice Hahn, Metro Board Member, providing the welcome.  
  
Over 120 contractors and other participants registered for the event to learn first-hand about navigating contracting opportunities with Metro. Supervisor Hahn conveyed Metro's commitment to inclusion, equity fairness and opportunity for all.
 

FEATURED CDBP CONTRACTOR

Veterans: Built for Construction

by Angela Gibson-Shaw, President, AG & Associates

“In the Marine Corps, they have a saying, “You have to embrace the suck,” said Ron Escobar, President of Escobar Construction.  “It means the situation sucks, but you have to embrace the discomfort and operate in that space.”  

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics’ 2018 – 2028 employment projections list construction jobs to grow by as much as ten percent.  Construction in public sector projects are expected to show strong growth, particularly in industries like transportation, education, healthcare and public safety.

Besides the ability to “embrace the suck,” there are many skills gained through military service that can translate into a long-term career in construction for veterans.

Helping Veterans Succeed in Public Works Contracting

Find out more about how our Contractor Bonding and Development Programs help veteran-owned contracting businesses secure or increase bonding for public works contracts. 

See "Bonding Leads to Business Growth" on page 46 of the latest issue of U.S. Veterans Magazine!
 

RESOURCES FOR VETERANS

Los Angeles County's Department of Consumer & Business Affairs

Visit our Disabled Veterans Business Enterprise page to learn how to register as a DVBE and receive individualized counseling on how to find contracting opportunities. Sign up for our newsletter to stay informed.
Learn More

The City of Los Angeles' Office of Veterans Affairs

Los Angeles is home to the highest concentration of military veterans in the country. Mayor Garcetti created the Office of Veterans Affairs to work collaboratively with government agencies and community-based organizations, and advocate for veterans. Visit our website for veteran-specific assistance with everything from housing and mental health to employment and work opportunities.
Learn More

Metro's Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise (DVBE) Program

Metro actively works to expand contracting opportunities for Disabled Veterans Business Enterprises through its DVBE Program. Download our guidelines to learn about becoming certified as a DVBE.
Download PDF

Los Angeles World Airports' (LAWA's) Disabled Veterans Business Enterprise Program

Los Angeles World Airports (LAWA) amended the Local Business and Local Small Business Enterprise Program to include and provide Local-State Disabled Veterans Business Enterprises (DVBEs) an equal opportunity to participate in the performance of all LAWA contracts. The amended ordinance expands inclusivity of businesses to DVBEs located in the State of California to serve the purpose of rewarding disabled veterans for their military service.
Learn More

City of Los Angeles Department of Public Works Bureau of Contract Administration Business Inclusion Program

This program was implemented to widen the participation of minority, women, small and disabled veteran businesses in City contracts.
Learn More

Office of Small Business & Disabled Veteran Business Enterprises (OSDS) Resources

The Office of Small Business and DVBE Services (OSDS) is the state's certifying agency that administers the small business, small business for the purpose of public works, and DVBE certification programs. We are committed to helping small and disabled veteran businesses thrive.
Learn More

California Public Utilities Commission Utility Supplier Diversity Program

Our program monitors supplier diversity in procurement by participating utilities and oversees a clearinghouse of women, minority, LGBT and disabled veteran-owned business enterprises.
Learn More

CA Department of Water Resources Small Business and Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise Program

California law requires agencies to adopt policies and procurement practices that will enable the State’s certified Small Business (SB) and Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise (DVBE) firms to gain at least 25 percent and 3 percent shares, respectively, of the State’s total procurement dollars. We actively promote achieving these participation goals in our $350 million average annual expenditures for services, contracts, and commodity purchases. 
Learn More

The Veterans In Business (VIB) Network

A nonprofit 501(c)3 organization that advocates for all Veteran Businesses, including SDVOSBs and DVBEs. We help build connections between Veteran Businesses, Corporations, Government Agencies, and Prime Contractors looking to create partnerships for contracting opportunities.
Learn More

Bunker Labs

A 501(c)3 non-profit, is a national network of veteran and milspouse entrepreneurs dedicated to helping the military-connected community start their own business.
Learn More

The U.S. Veterans Business Alliance

USVBA strives to be the partner of choice for all US veterans, ensuring success in their business by providing advocacy, guidance, and resources to support veteran entrepreneurs in establishing, maintaining, and growing successful businesses.
Learn More

Veterans of America, Los Angeles Chapter (VOALA)

VOALA programs address the myriad issues facing Veterans and their families including depression, anxiety, PTSD, TBI, substance use disorders, homelessness, unemployment, and lack of education. Our support helps Veterans overcome the barriers that stand between them and a stable, secure life.
Learn More

Veteran's Administration Office of Small & Disadvantaged Business Utilization

Visit the VA's Office of Small & Disadvantaged Business Utilization pages for information on how to get verified through their "Vets First Verification Program" to be able to participate in the "Veterans First Contracting Program" for VA set-asides and sole source contracts. This site also provides information about COVID-19-related and other assistance for veterans.
Learn More

COVID-19-Related Resources for ALL Contractors:

UPDATED Emergency Loan Resources List
UPDATED CalOSHA COVID-19 Overall Construction Industry Guidance
UPDATED CalOSHA COVID-19 Safety Guidelines
UPDATED CalOSHA COVID-19 Contractor Jobsite Safety Checklist
Visit the regularly updated COVID-19 resource pages on our website!
COVID-19 News & Information
COVID-19 Resource Links

NEW PRE-BIDS & OPPORTUNITIES

Westside (Purple Line) Subway Extension, Section 1

Skanska-Traylor-Shea JV is soliciting in good faith all interested subcontractors, as well as certified DBE companies for Furnish and Install Striping and Pavement Markings.

PRE BID DATE:  Thursday, November 12 at 10:00 AM
View PDF

Westside (Purple Line) Subway Extension, Section 1

Skanska-Traylor-Shea JV is soliciting in good faith all interested subcontractors, as well as certified DBE companies for Furnish and Install Asphalt Concrete Paving.

PRE BID DATE:  Friday, November 20 at 10:00 AM
View PDF

Bureau of Engineering: Pre-Qualification for Bypass and Isolation Contractors for the TIWRP Final Tanks Skimmer System Upgrade

The Bureau of Engineering (BOE) of the City of Los Angeles Department of Public Works (DPW) is seeking Contractors to be placed on a pre-qualified list to submit bids for construction of the Terminal Island Water Reclamation Plant (TIWRP) Final Tanks Skimmer System Upgrade, located at 445 Ferry Street, San Pedro, California, 90731.

PRE BID DATE:  Thursday, November 12 at 1:00 PM
Learn More

Eagle Rock HS

FETU - Removal of Existing Asbestos-Containing Floor Tiles in Various Rooms of Building 003BES.
PRE BID DATE:  Thursday, November 12 at 8:00 AM
Learn More

Gulf EL

PUS AA - Install ALPRO Ceiling Panel System @ Bldg. 003 DAP.
PRE BID DATE:  Thursday, November 12 at 9:00 AM
Learn More

Haskell STEAM Magnet

FETU - Removal of Existing Asbestos (ACM) Flooring Materials in Library & Classroom Bldg B (002DAN).
PRE BID DATE:  Thursday, November 12 at 10:00 AM
Learn More

Muir MS

Refinish auditorium stage and stairs.
PRE BID DATE:  Thursday, November 12 at 1:00 PM
Learn More

San Pedro High School

Comprehensive modernization.
PRE BID DATE:  Friday, November 13 at 10:00 AM
Learn More

West Hollywood EL

FETU - Sand Existing Lead-Containing Hardwood Flooring in Various Rooms in Building 001CDF.
PRE BID DATE:  Friday, November 13 at 10:00 AM
Learn More

Chatsworth UP/CD Mag.

Remove & Replace Deteriorated Auditorium Stage Drapery.
PRE BID DATE:  Monday, November 16 at 1:00 PM
Learn More

Horace Mann UCLA

Paint existing deteriorated walls in library, main office complex.
PRE BID DATE:  Tuesday, November 17 at 10:00 AM
Learn More

Canoga Park EL

FETU - Sand Existing Lead-Containing Hardwood Floor Coating in the Auditorium Building (002CAJ).
PRE BID DATE:  Wednesday, November 18 at 1:30 PM
Learn More

Park Facilities Construction, Retrofit, Maintenance, and/or Repairs RFQ

Park Facility Construction, Retrofit, Maintenance, and/or Repairs includes, but is not limited to the following:
1. Asphalt Paving
2. Flatwork Concrete
3. Grading
4. New Park Construction

PRE BID DATE:  Monday, November 16 at 11:00 AM
Learn More

As-Needed General Park Building Construction RFQ

General Park Building Construction includes but is not limited to work by general contractors such as construction and renovation of building structures found in public park facilities such as recreation centers, childcare facilities, field restrooms, concession buildings, shade structures, bathhouse buildings, bridges, multi-purpose buildings, field houses and community centers. Contractors may also provide and install pre-fabricated offices, restrooms, concession buildings, storage buildings and field houses.

PRE BID DATE:  Monday, November 16 at 2:00 PM
Learn More
Metro: I-5 North Capacity Enhancement Project
Construction Contract to widen Interstate 5 between the State Route 14 Interchange and Parker Road along with Intelligent Transportation System (ITS) improvements between Interstate 405 and Interstate 210.

PRE BID DATE:  Friday, November 20 at 10:00 AM
Learn More

LADWP: Locational Distributed Energy Resources

The Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (LADWP) is soliciting proposals for Request for Proposal No. 90599. The duration of the contract is expected to be twelve (12) years with the budget range of $57,000,000 to $88,000,000. LADWP intends to award one or multiple agreement(s) per Distributed Energy Resource Zone.

PRE BID DATE:  Monday, December 7 at 10:00 AM
Learn More

BID REQUESTS

Westside (Purple Line) Subway Extension, Section 1

Addendum 2 issued by Skanska-Traylor-Shea for Furnish and Install Landscaping and Irrigation at Subway Stations.

BID DUE DATE:   Monday, November 16 at 2:00 PM
View PDF

Westside (Purple Line) Subway Extension, Section 1

Skanska-Traylor-Shea JV is soliciting in good faith all interested subcontractors, as well as certified DBE companies for Furnish and Install Concrete Street Improvements.

BID DUE DATE:  Friday, November 20 at 2:00 PM
View PDF

Graffiti Abatement Services for Bus and Rail Facilities

Metro is seeking a qualified licensed Contractor to provide graffiti abatement services through the use of chemical removal agents, a rag, and/or pressurized hot water and through the paint-out method, throughout Metro facilities, buildings, and railroad system infrastructure, as well as Caltrans P&R lots.

BID DUE DATE:  Thursday, December 3 at 2:00 PM
Learn More

View Open Metro Solicitations

The Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (Metro) regularly posts open solicitations. To view a list of open solicitations, visit Metro's Open Solicitations tab on their website. You can access their website using the link below.
Visit Metro website

Are You A Small Or Diverse Business That Would Like To Work With McCarthy?

COVID-19 may be keeping us apart right now, but we at McCarthy remain committed to continuing our outreach to small and diverse businesses. We want to get to know you and your business, invite you to future outreach events and keep you advised on bid opportunities in your area.

Complete an online survey to help McCarthy to get to know your company.

To prequalify, visit our Online Subcontractor Pre-qualification Application.
View Outreach Flyer
Hensel Phelps

LAX Terminal 4/5 Redevelopment

 
The project will fully modernize and update the infrastructure of LAX’s two busiest domestic terminals. Benefits and features include a fully upgraded and modernized Terminal 4, a spacious new departure hall, reconfigured ticket counters, and new security screening with automated technology.
Bid due dates will vary, inquire for details.
Learn More
County of Los Angeles


Los Angeles County Open Solicitations List

Click on the button below to visit the website, then scroll down and select "Open Solicitations" to view an online list. You can also download the list from the website to your computer.
Visit the Website
LA DWP

Department of Water & Power

LADWP suspended in-person public bid openings, the hand-delivery of bids, and in-person Pre-Bid meetings to reduce the number of people coming into LADWP facilities and help reduce the spread of COVID-19. Until further notice, LADWP is not accepting hand-delivered bids; all bids must be sent to LADWP by mail, allowing enough time to be delivered at the VLC by the due date. All submittals will be time-stamped at the VLC public counter as soon as they are received. Bids received after the due date and time may be deemed non-responsive and excluded from consideration.

All Bid openings are being conducted online only, using WebEx, which requires a computer with internet access and a separate telephone line. LADWP will hold public bid openings via WebEx starting at 2:00 p.m. on the date each bid closes.

Learn more about electronic bidding by visiting the LADWP website.

Search for contracting opportunities throughout Los Angeles by visiting the Los Angeles Business Assistance Virtual Network site.

IMPORTANT OUTREACH & EVENTS

10th Annual California Cable Symposium

Keeping California Connected. 10th Annual California Cable Supplier Diversity Symposium is a high impact virtual, one-day event, strategically connecting diverse suppliers directly to the supplier diversity representatives, buyers and prime suppliers. The symposium includes multiple programs to engage, educate, and connect diverse suppliers to important industry trends and opportunities.

DATE:  Thursday, November 12 at 9:00 AM PDT
Learn More & Register

Super Bowl LVI Business Connect Workshop

OneLA welcomes the Los Angeles Super Bowl Host Committee and the National Football League for a special informational session on the Super Bowl LVI Business Connect program. This virtual workshop will feature an overview of Super Bowl LVI Business Connect’s professional development, networking and competitive contracting opportunities related to Super Bowl LVI in February 2022. Experienced minority, woman, LGBTQ+ and veteran-owned event production companies are invited to apply for Business Connect.

DATE:  Thursday, November 12 at 10:00 AM
Learn More

California African American Chamber of Commerce: How To Do Business With the California Water Association

Nearly 6 million people in California are served by regulated water utilities. The California Water Association (CWA) represents the interests of these companies as they strive to provide safe, reliable, high-quality water and excellent customer service in a cost-effective manner. Join us for this virtual workshop and learn how to do business with the California Water Association.

DATE:  Thursday, November 12 at 11:00 AM
Register Now

McCarthy Building Companies Outreach Event - Virtual Trade Partner Training: Outreach Strategies & Procurement


DATE:  Monday, November 16
Learn More

Construction Trade Resources Webinar

Topics will include:
•    Construction Workforce Challenges
•    How to stimulate interest in the Construction Trades
•    Integration of technology in the Construction Industry
•    How to prepare your workforce in the coming years

DATE: Tuesday, November 17 at 8:30 AM
Learn More & Register

CCM Application Webinar

Topics Covered:
CCM Eligibility
CCM Application Process
CCM Exam Preparation
CCM Recertification Process

DATE:  Thursday, November 19 at 3:00 PM

RSVP to Jinous.Samii-Saremi@vanir.com

How Public Owners use Project Incentive Programs Webinar

Join our impressive panel of professionals that have played a crucial role in the development and implementation of incentive programs on a multitude of public project types.
 
DATE:  Thursday, December 3 at 2:00 PM
Learn More & Register

Transportation Business Advisory Council (TBAC) Legislative Committee Meeting

The Legislative Committee is a committee of the Metro Transportation Business Advisory Council (TBAC) that serves in an advisory capacity to suggest best practices and innovative ways for Metro to connect and work with the small business community.

DATE:  Monday, November 16 at 10:00 AM
Learn More

Lunch & Learn Series: DEOD Your Team Tuesday(s)

We want you to get to know us better. Certified small businesses benefit from DEOD advocacy, program development, compliance monitoring and outreach. We prepare you for contracting and this series will also feature small business owners that have been successful using Metro Small Business Programs.

DATE:  Tuesday, November 17 at 11:30 AM
Learn More

TBAC Construction Committee Meeting

The Construction Committee is a committee of the Metro Transportation Business Advisory Council (TBAC) that serves in an advisory capacity to suggest best practices and innovative ways for Metro to connect and work with the small business community.

DATE:  Wednesday, November 18 at 3:00 PM
Learn More

LA Metro TBAC EBO&I Ad Hoc Committee Meeting

The Emerging Business Opportunities & Innovation (EBO&I) Ad Hoc Committee is a committee of the Metro Transportation Business Advisory Council (TBAC) that serves in an advisory capacity to suggest best practices and innovative ways for Metro to connect and work with the small business community.

DATE:   Thursday, November 19 at 4:00 PM
Learn More

Lunch & Learn Series: DEOD Your Team Tuesday(s)

We want you to get to know us better. Certified small businesses benefit from DEOD advocacy, program development, compliance monitoring and outreach. We prepare you for contracting and this series will also feature small business owners that have been successful using Metro Small Business Programs.

DATE:  Tuesday, November 24 at 11:30 AM
Learn More

TBAC-Transportation Business Advisory Council General Membership Meeting

TBAC is Metro's small business advocacy council that meets the first Thursday of each month (except in August). Small business owners have a forum in which they can discuss topics and issues impacting them. They can learn about current and future Metro contract opportunities, legislation updates and current trends in transportation.

DATE:  Thursday, December 3 at 8:30 AM
Learn More

Lunch & Learn Series: DEOD Your Team Tuesday(s)

We want you to get to know us better. Certified small businesses benefit from DEOD advocacy, program development, compliance monitoring and outreach. We prepare you for contracting and this series will also feature small business owners that have been successful using Metro Small Business Programs.

DATE:  Tuesday, December 1 at 11:30 AM
Learn More

How To Do Business With Metro Virtual Workshop

The Metro Diversity and Economic Opportunity Department invites you to attend our monthly “How to Do Business with Metro Workshop,” conducted every 2nd Tuesday.  This two-hour orientation provides information on Metro's certification program, Set-Asides (SB Prime) Vendor Portal tutorial, and ways to use Metro tools for success.

DATE:  Tuesday, December 8 at 10 AM
Learn More

Lunch & Learn Series: DEOD Your Team Tuesday(s)

We want you to get to know us better. Certified small businesses benefit from DEOD advocacy, program development, compliance monitoring and outreach. We prepare you for contracting and this series will also feature small business owners that have been successful using Metro Small Business Programs.

DATE:  Tuesday, December 8 at 11:30 AM
Learn More

SCMSDC: National Business Inclusion Consortium Unity Week

The National Minority Supplier Development Council will take part in the inaugural National Business Inclusion Consortium Unity Week, a celebration of NBIC's diversity, opportunity, equity, and collaboration.  

DATES:  Monday, November 16 - Thursday, November 19
Learn More & Register

National Association of Women in Construction, Los Angeles Chapter: Webinar "The You - A Personal Brand"

Whether you are interviewing with a new company, being considered for an internal promotion or looking to join a board... How do you represent yourself? Are you able to communicate your story or value? If you have professional social media, does it reflect this same story?

DATE:  Tuesday, November 17 at 5:00 PM
Learn More & Register

Los Angeles Gateway Partners: Best Value Contracting Workshop

Subject matter experts, Julio Vasquez, Construction Manager, and Koji Bunden, Estimator, of PCL Construction will provide an overview of the Best Value delivery method and equip the audience with the following:
 
•    How the delivery method differs from other methods
•    Best value criteria that could be considered for award
•    How XBE’s can bid competitively
•    Role of contractual commitments
•    How to prepare for execution on a best value contract.

DATE:  Thursday, November 19 at 9:00 AM
Register Now

Los Angeles Virtual Women's Entrepreneurship Day 2020

Mayor Eric Garcetti’s Office of Economic Development invites you to attend a virtual celebration of LA Women’s Entrepreneurship Day 2020.

DATE:  Thursday, November 19 at 10:00 AM
Learn More & Register

25th Anniversary Virtual Celebration

For the first time ever, our Annual Awards Gala will be virtual and we will be honoring our first Legacy Award Winners. We will be celebrating this special 25th Anniversary milestone with a live interactive program featuring an evening of cocktails, networking, live performance and games with prizes, creating a night to remember.

DATE:  Thursday, November 19 at 5:30 PM
Learn More & Register

SCMSDC Save the Date: The Leadership Excellence Awards

Save the Date for a Virtual Watch Party of the Leadership Excellence and Corporation of the Year Awards. The event will be live-streamed.

DATE:  Thursday, November 19 at 7:00 PM PDT
Learn More

SCMSDC: Pre-Certification Workshop

Learn about the MBE application process, including required documents & eligibility, covered by the SCMSDC team handling you application.
Program includes:

    Eligibility requirements in becoming MBE Certified
    Explanation and samples of documents that are required
    Opportunity to ask specific questions related to your company
    Assistance on the Portal application process

DATE:   Tuesday, December 8 at 2 PM
Learn More & Register

USC Civic Engagement: Bridges to Business Success Program

The goal of the Bridges to Business Success Program is to provide you customized and comprehensive support from industry experts and consultants that will accelerate the growth of local small business enterprises that possess high-growth potential.

DATES:  Saturday, February 6, 2020 - Sunday, May 16, 2021   
Learn More
Apply Now

Small Business Webinar

 

Interested in learning more about working with State Agencies + Getting Certified?

Check out these construction-focused webinars:
  1. The SB/DBE Certification Series
  2. The Contracting Series of Webinars
Hosted by: Granite Construction, DGS, CAlTrans, SBDC, CPM Logistics, Cal Coastal. View class details and schedule here
Please contact Michele@cpmlogistics.net with any questions or if you need assistance registering for any of the events.

IMPORTANT NEWS & REMINDERS

SoCal Edison Creates More Than 19,000 Jobs with Diverse Suppliers Spending

Last year, Southern California Edison recorded 40.1% of its corporate purchases, or $2.2 billion in spending,with more than 650 diverse businesses.
View PDF
LA Department of Building and Safety


City of Los Angeles Construction-related updates:

Visit the City of Los Angeles Department of Building and Safety website for the latest construction-related updates!
Learn More

Small Business Resources Updates

Visit the Los Angeles Department of Consumer and Business Affairs' "Save Small Business Initiative" website for the most updated information about resources and support available to small business owners.

Construct connect


Contractors: Stay Informed

Fortinet Logo

 

 Free Cybersecurity Awareness Training for Teleworkers 

Fortinet also has two no-cost non-technical courses targeted towards teleworkers and their families. We highly encourage people to take some time to educate themselves about proper security protocols to keep themselves and their organization’s networks safe.
Learn More
VIB Network - Veterans in Business
As each of us strives to identify paths for remaining viable during these uncertain times, we deemed it necessary to transition to a virtual working environment.  In doing so, SoCalGas in partnership with Frontier Communications cordially invite you to take part in our ongoing webinars on doing business, identifying the opportunities, and surviving the wave.  These sessions have been designed with our diverse suppliers in mind.  Please share this information and be sure to register in advance.
Learn More

Impact of Assembly Bill 5 On Construction Industry

What New California Law Means for Building Trades
Assembly Bill 5 (AB5) was signed into law and went into effect in January. Under this new law, all California employers, including those in construction, must treat contract workers as employees unless an employer can show that the work which they perform meets a detailed set of criteria established by a California Supreme Court ruling last year.
Read More
Lanak & Hanna

Court of Appeals Rules “Pay When Paid” Not a Defense for Payment Bond Surety

This law has a significant impact on contractors.
Read More
LA Port of Los Angeles

PB System™ for Port of Los Angeles

The Port of Los Angeles (POLA) has implemented the PB System™, a fully automated web-based Vendor and Bid Management System provided by PlanetBids.

This system makes doing business with POLA easier by providing an overall improved user experience with expanded features in managing your online procurement profile.

The POLA requests that all Vendors/Contractors register online; once registered, you can edit and maintain your profile at any time by revisiting the POLA website.
Learn More

ONGOING OPPORTUNITIES

Small Business Disaster Assistance

Find disaster-related loans and financial support available to Los Angeles area small business owners.
Learn More

COVID-19 Business Assistance

Locate various resources for Los Angeles County business owners.
Visit Website

Support for Los Angeles Small Businesses

Visit L.A. County's COVID-19 Resource page to learn how your business can obtain assistance during this crisis.
Visit Website
Business For All

Grant Opportunity

Apply for grants up to $50,000 to support business growth, including $10,000 emergency COVID-19 Business for All Grants to help small businesses in crisis. Join leaders such as Gwyneth Paltrow, Kristen Bell, Lisa Price, Armando Christian "Pitbull" Perez, and Jeff Hoffman to empower every American with an entrepreneurial spirit.
Learn More

ANNOUNCEMENTS


State of California COVID-19 Medical Supply Contributions

State of California COVID-19 Medical Supply Contributions. Please click on the button below to complete a form describing resources you have to contribute, either for donation or purchase, to support California’s response to COVID-19.
Learn More
Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce

ONELA: Matching Needs with Suppliers

As the country and our region addresses COVID-19, the Chamber would like to connect those that need supplies with manufacturers and service providers that may be able to fulfill those needs. Below are current opportunities for both suppliers and those in need.
Learn More


Master Agreements For Services

The County of LA has a registration portal for emergency procurement of supplies and services. They maintain a "Disaster Emergency Services (DESMA) Master Agreement" which is available as a Request for Statement of Qualifications (RFSQ).
Learn More

We are here for you...


Merriwether & Williams Insurance Services staff want to reassure you that, despite the necessary social distancing due to COVID-19, we are all still here to assist and provide guidance about resources, information and support services to help our contractor communities weather this crisis. 

To help mitigate the risk to our associates and clients, our staff are working from home until further notice but continue to provide Program services, including and ongoing virtual training and workshops, individual contractor support and assistance with critical needs. We are working diligently to identify, vet and facilitate your awareness of and connection to any special resources being offered by a range of providers.

Should you need to contact a representative for the Contractor Development and Bonding Program, please call our main line at 213-258-3000 or email us at mwisinfo@imwis.com. We will respond!

Although this crisis is unprecedented in its impact, we are all in this together for the long haul and as long as we remain calm, take precautions and prepare, we can make it through the challenges together. Merriwether & Williams Insurance Services has always been an advocate for equity and inclusion in our communities and we remain committed to building coalitions and providing resources, tools and information to our clients and partners. We are publishing helpful contractor-specific and general community COVID-19 updates, resources and information, so check out our COVID-19 specific information and links above, to help you stay healthy and get the support you need!
Do you need technical assistance or help bonding?

We provide local, small contractors with individualized support, technical assistance and help obtaining bid, performance and payment bonds. Let us help you learn, prepare and get a surety bond line of credit, so that you can start bidding on upcoming construction projects.

Please contact the Contractor Development and Bonding Program today! Email us at: mwisinfo@imwis.com Call us at: 213-258-3000
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Merriwether & Williams
The Contractor Development and Bonding Program equips contractors with the tools and resources needed to navigate through the obstacles of public construction contracting. Enroll now and find out how our Account Managers can help you obtain bonding or increase your bonding capacity as well as maximize your potential to grow your business.

Please contact the Contractor Development and Bonding Program today!

Email us at: mwisinfo@imwis.com   Call us at: 213-258-3000   Visit us at: lacondev.com
 

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