Join the Fifth Annual Caltrans Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) Summit
Event Overview
Caltrans is proud to announce its fifth annual Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) Summit, scheduled for March 4, 2026, at the Fresno Convention Center. This event is a pivotal gathering aimed at forging connections between small businesses, disabled veteran-owned enterprises, and public agencies. The focus is to enhance access to transportation contracting opportunities across California and bolster the state’s transportation infrastructure.
When and Where
- Date: Wednesday, March 4, 2026
- Time: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
- Location: Fresno Convention Center
Why Attend?
The DBE Summit is a free, in-person event designed to help small business stakeholders build meaningful relationships, discover procurement opportunities, and access resources that foster long-term growth. The event aims to strengthen the business community, particularly focusing on small and disadvantaged enterprises.
Registration is currently open! Interested participants can register here.
Keynote Messages
California Transportation Secretary Toks Omishakin stated, “Small businesses play a critical role in delivering projects that serve California’s communities. This Summit, supported by Governor Newsom’s commitment to expanding economic opportunity, connects small businesses with the tools and partnerships they need to succeed while doing business with the state.”
Caltrans Director Dina El-Tawansy emphasized the organization’s commitment, saying, “Caltrans is dedicated to ensuring small and disadvantaged business enterprises benefit from increased contracting opportunities.”
Summit Highlights
The theme of this year’s summit, “Come ~ Network ~ Grow,” epitomizes Caltrans’ commitment to reinforcing small business participation in California’s transportation programs.
Attendees can look forward to:
- Networking opportunities with Caltrans District Small Business Liaisons and procurement staff.
- Connections with prime contractors in search of subcontractors and collaborators.
- Meetings with advocates from various state and local agencies offering contracting opportunities.
- A hands-on Cal eProcure Clinic to enhance business profiles.
Notable Speakers Include:
- Caltrans Director Dina El-Tawansy
- California High-Speed Rail Authority Chief Deputy Director Mark Tollferson
- Caltrans Office of Civil Rights Deputy Director David DeLuz
- Fresno Mayor Jerry Dyer
- Caltrans District 6 Director Michael Navarro
Tip for Attendees: Bring a laptop or tablet to fully engage in the interactive sessions.
Additional Resources
This summit serves as a significant avenue for small businesses to tap into the historic state and federal transportation investments aimed at benefiting diverse California communities.
For more information about transportation projects funded through state and federal investments, visit build.ca.gov.
For inquiries: Please email smallbusinessadvocate@dot.ca.gov.
Participate in this transformative event and take a step toward enhancing your business’s capability to thrive in California’s evolving transportation landscape. Don’t miss out—register today!
