County Launches Programs to Help Small Businesses
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By County News Center, County of San Diego Communications Office | Sep. 3, 2025 | 2:45 PM | Reading Time: 2 minutes
The County is taking significant steps to support and grow small local businesses and non-profits, with the goal of directing 25% of its $2.2 billion annual contract spending toward these entities, potentially keeping around $550 million per year in the region.
Two new pilot programs were launched on Tuesday to address common obstacles faced by small businesses:
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Bonding and Underwriting Insurance for Local Development (BUILD) program: This program, in partnership with Founders First Community Development Corporation (Founders First CDC), provides direct support and financial resources to small businesses and non-profits often unable to afford bonding and insurance requirements.
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Compliance, Operations and Readiness Education (CORE) program: This program offers expert-led administrative and bookkeeping assistance to prevent labor violations and promote fair business practices, helping local entrepreneurs grow their businesses, create jobs, and compete for new opportunities.
Both pilot programs aim to support over 100 small businesses and nonprofits within the next year.
Supporting Small Businesses Through Policy Changes
On August 26, the County Board of Supervisors approved substantial policy changes to its purchasing and contracting system:
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Increased small local business preference: The preference was raised from 5% to 15%, giving small bids a competitive edge.
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Simplified procurement methods: RFQs (Requests for Qualifications) are now encouraged over RFPs (Requests for Proposals), streamlining the process and reducing completion time.
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Recognition of disadvantaged business enterprises: Formal recognition of these businesses expands opportunities for participation in County contracts.
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Expanded definition of small businesses: The definition now includes nonprofits, veteran-owned businesses, disabled veteran-owned businesses, and businesses with other relevant certifications.