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 with the tools, connections and confidence needed for success on MnDOT projects. The following SBRC events are open through March:
Spark session - Don't be the breach: Everyday habits that protect data
Most security disasters happen because of small, everyday mistakes. Focus on simple, practical habits to keep your and your employees’ data safe. Build a security mindset without slowing down your workday. Discover how to store and share data securely. Learn how to safely dispose of sensitive information. Sponsored by the MnDOT Small Business Resource Center.
Spark session - Getting started with LCPtracker Pro: The "other" certified payroll reporting tool
Local governments often use LCPtracker Pro for their transportation construction projects. Like AASHTOWare, used by MnDOT, this tool is also for reporting certified payroll. This webinar is led by LCPtracker staff. They will show you how to use the main tools for contractors and subcontractors. Get your questions answered and learn from the questions others ask.
Spark session - AI for small businesses: The rewards, risks, and safe use
Join this webinar to learn how artificial intelligence tools can help your business. We will discuss the rewards and risks of using AI today. See how these tools can help you read blueprints, write proposals, and estimate costs. We will also talk about different AI models and how to set safe rules for your staff. Learn from AI professionals: Dhatri Chennavajula, Founder and CEO, and Vicki Snowden, Vice President and Partner, CDS Vision, Inc.
Social circle - The power of one: Succeeding without a staff
Social Circle is a monthly roundtable for business owners and entrepreneurs. Come with ideas. Leave with inspiration. Facilitated by Shelly Binsfeld, president, Rock Leaf Water Environmental.
Spark session - Insurance made simple: What small businesses need to know
Join us to learn about the various types of insurance: general liability, workers’ compensation, professional liability, and auto insurance. Hear true stories to learn why insurance is essential for your business. Understand why you provide “certificate of insurance.” Learn why it is important to meet state requirements for coverage. Find out how to ensure you do. Sarah Jewell, Owner and Attorney at Law from River Valley Law Firm, will present this webinar.
Business elevation workshop - Mock bid day: A hands-on estimating workshop
Learn by doing in this interactive bid workshop. Step into the role of a prime contractor. This exercise uses a previous MnDOT construction project. Estimate a contract in the morning. Work in small groups to refine your estimate. Use project plans, special provisions, and subcontractor and supplier quotes. The bid opening is midday. Learn from evaluation and discussion of major line items. Compare class bids to the actual bids received for the project. Experienced estimators will help you improve your estimating skills. Seats are limited! Reserve your spot.
Required pre-work: Watch two one-hour pre-recorded videos online. Videos cover the project's construction plans and special provisions. Vidoes provided after registration.
See the event calendar for details on all SBRC events. For questions, contact Berta.Hartig@drbteam.com
MnDOT labor compliance training
AASHTOWare assistance
MnDOT’s AASHTOWare expert Kirsten Reyes is available to meet one-to-one in person or online. Schedule an in-person meeting in a private office during the time listed below. If there are no meetings scheduled at least 48 hours prior, that in-person session will be cancelled.
Prevailing wage and AASHTOWare/CRL Workshop
This free workshop is for contractors, payroll administrators and managers. Learn how to use the State’s payroll reporting system. Sponsored by the MnDOT Office of Construction and Innovative Contracting, Labor Compliance Unit.
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 Assistance sessions may be virtual or in-person depending on your preference. Our experts are available to assist you in a variety of areas.
Workforce in the construction industry
Training
Commercial Driver's License
MnDOT has partnered with AIOIC to offer CDL training to individuals.
More information
For more information about MnDOT Office of Civil Rights programs, please visit www.mndot.gov/civilrights/index.html
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