Prairie State Wire

The Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) is organizing a series of free virtual workshops in April as part of the "Building Blocks of Success" initiative. These workshops aim to assist Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) firms in enhancing their skills, expanding their businesses, and preparing to bid on state projects. Both new and existing DBEs, as well as firms interested in obtaining certification, are encouraged to participate.

The schedule for the April workshops is as follows:

- April 2: Quickbooks - Payroll Insurance Union Setup

- April 4: Basic Math Part 1, 2 and 3

- April 9: Mobilization, Material Allowance and Traffic Control

- April 11: Material, Equipment and Labor

- April 16: Extra Work (T&M)/Force Account

- April 18: Davis-Bacon Act

- April 23: Daily Documentation and Diary

- April 25: Scheduling the Work

- April 30: IDOT EPAS Systems: Consultant Prequalification and Statements of Interest

The workshops will conclude on April 30. Details about these sessions can be found on Eventbrite at bit.ly/DBEworkshops. Advance registration is necessary for participation.

Inquiries can be directed to IDOT's Bureau of Small Business Enterprises at the phone number provided. The initiative aligns with Governor JB Pritzker's Rebuild Illinois program, which focuses on delivering a significant capital program while fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion.

The DBE program managed by IDOT offers minorities, women, and eligible small businesses opportunities to engage in federally and state-funded highway, transit, and airport contracts. Further information about becoming a certified DBE is available on IDOT's website.