Office of Civil Rights News
MnDOT offers free classes and opportunities for certified small businesses. Develop the necessary business skills and expertise to win MnDOT work.
Small Business Resource Center events
The MnDOT Small Business Resource Center empowers small businesses and DBEs with the tools, connections and confidence needed for success on MnDOT projects. The following SBRC events are open this week through November:
Business elevation workshop: Get a better understanding of plans and specs
This hands-on workshop is for subcontractors and small businesses. Increase your bidding confidence and skills. Walk through a full MnDOT plan set and learn how to understand the details. Learn how plans and specs differ by project type such as Design-Build, Construction Manager/General Contractor (CMGC), and Indefinite Delivery/Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ). Gain practical knowledge to help you prepare a bid and learn about common mistakes.
MnDOT Highway 5 Improvements Project SP 010-596-014 Carver County Meet and Greet
The Highway 5 Improvements Project will expand the highway from two to four lanes west of Highway 41 in Chanhassen to Downtown Victoria. For scopes of work, view the Meet and Greet flyer (PDF).
Social Circle
Social Circle is a monthly roundtable for local business owners and entrepreneurs. Join us in a welcoming space to connect and share experiences. Discuss current challenges, emerging trends or issues small businesses face today. Whether you are a seasoned entrepreneur or just getting started, Social Circle is a place for you. Gain fresh perspectives and make meaningful connections. Walk away with useful insights you can apply to your business.
AASHTOWare assistance - open hours
MnDOT’s AASHTOWare expert Kirsten Reyes provides this monthly support at the Small Business Resource Center. Walk-in for an in-person meeting in a private office or schedule a virtual meeting.
- Nov. 17, 2025
- 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.
- MnDOT Small Business Resource Center, south metro office, 2930 Waters Road #230, Eagan (inside PE Services)
- Contact: Kirsten.Reyes@state.mn.us or 612-282-2100
Looking ahead in the Small Business Resource Center
Open hours for AASHTOWare assistance will also be held on Dec. 5. The monthly Social Circle meets on Dec. 8. See the event calendar for all SBRC events.
More ways MnDOT helps certified small businesses:
Micro Grants available
Apply for up to $3,500 of financial assistance to increase your business capacity and compete more effectively on MnDOT contracts. Funding is available through April 30, 2026, or until funds are exhausted. Funds are provided as reimbursement for preapproved expenses. For information on eligibility and how to apply, visit the Micro Grant program web page.
One-to-one Small Business Assistance program
One-to-one Small Business Assistances sessions may be virtual or in-person depending on your preference. Our experts are available to assist you in a variety of areas.
Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) and Workforce Collaborative
The DBE and Workforce Collaborative is an advisory group to MnDOT. The group’s mission is to increase the diversity of firms and people working on MnDOT highway projects. Subcommittees focus on strategies to support DBEs and underrepresented populations such as women, minorities, and disadvantaged individuals. Learn about the Collaborative.
Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) committee meeting
The DBE committee identifies issues and recommendations related to building capacity, utilization, and sustainability of DBE firms. This committee is a subgroup of the Minnesota DBE and Workforce Collaborative.
Full DBE and Workforce Collaborative meeting
The DBE and Workforce Collaborative is an advisory group of stakeholders from various industry groups interested in DBE and workforce diversity. The Collaborative’s goal is to increase the diversity of firms and people of color and women participation in the construction industry to reflect the demographics of the State of Minnesota by: Building the future workforce, expanding existing business and workforce skills, ensuring transparency, and connecting people and firms with each other. It is an open group that welcomes the participation of all who support the goal. Any organization or individual committed to the goal may participate by attending a Collaborative meeting.
Workforce training in the construction industry
MnDOT has partnered with Building Strong Communities to offer training to individuals interested in preparing for an apprenticeship and gaining entry-level work in the highway construction trades. Applications are currently being accepted on the Building Strong Communities website. Register for an information session to learn more about the program.
For questions, contact: Amy Perez Ortiz, amy.perez.ortiz@state.us.mn
More information
For more information please visit https://www.dot.state.mn.us/civilrights/index.html
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