Community Partners Welcome!

We invite you to participate in the committees and workgroups addressing the recommendations from the 2023 State of Oregon Disparity Study. Your expertise and insights can help drive meaningful change in Oregon’s procurement and economic equity strategies!

We are seeking individuals who have experience bidding on government work, utilizing subcontractors, or working in procurement, policy, business equity, or economic development. We value all perspectives from all industries that are passionate about advancing equitable business opportunities in Oregon.

Available Opportunities:

August to November 2025

• Subgroup 5: Minimums and Goals
• Subgroup 6: Insurance and Bonding

January 2026

• Subgroup 7: Thresholds and Unbundling
• Subgroup 8: Bid Posting Times
• Subgroup 9: Financial Assistance

Use our online form or scan the QR code below to get more information and sign up!

The following is an actual question submitted to the 'Ask Jenine' form. Names have been changed for anonymity.

"Hey, Jenine. I attended a Small Business Summit this summer. Mind Blown! There are so many resources. I never knew! If you had to pick one thing to give me a leg up, what would it be?"

-Ilene Dover

'Giving Small Businesses a Leg Up: COBID Certifications'

Ilene,

I’m glad you asked! Certification Office for Business Inclusion and Diversity (COBID) certification will give you that leg up. Darren Spencer, a specialist from COBID, has this to say:

What Does it Mean to be Certified?

It means that you and/or your businesses have provided information to confirm that you fall into an underserved category, based on demographic information, veteran status, and/or the size of your business based on annual revenue and number of employees. Depending on the criteria you will be certified and be listed as part of a larger database of other COBID certified businesses. Certification ensures that businesses have sufficient structure, inventory, staffing and competency to honor contracts at the point of certification. 

What are the Benefits of Certification?

COBID-certified businesses have increased visibility by Oregon Department of Transportation, as well as other state and local government agencies. COBID certification ensures that small businesses can more fairly compete with larger businesses. Based on the 2024 Disparity Study, the state has set a target for a percentage of State contract spend to go towards COBID-certified firms.

How do I or my business become COBID Certified?

Visit the COBID website! You will find information about the various COBID Certifications, the application process and the link to apply.

'Women Business Enterprise'

Definition: A Women Business Enterprise (WBE) is a business that is at least 51% owned, controlled, and managed by one or more women who are US citizens or permanent residents.

In Oregon, certification through Certification Office for Business Inclusion and Diversity (COBID) connects these firms to public contracting opportunities and strengthens our state’s supplier base. If you know a business that might qualify or want to learn more, visit the COBID website.

National Women's Small Business Month

October is National Women’s Small Business Month. It is a chance to recognize the innovation, resilience, and collaboration that women-owned businesses bring to Oregon’s marketplace. Supporting WBE-certified firms expands competition, drives creativity, and encourages investment in local Oregon communities.