Avelar Spotlights Disadvantaged Business Enterprise Program Workshops

BOLINGBROOK, Ill. — State Rep. Dagmara Avelar, D-Bolingbrook, is encouraging new and existing Disadvantaged Business Enterprise firms to take advantage of a series of virtual workshops hosted by the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT). The workshops will help firms strengthen their skills, grow their business and learn more about bidding on state projects.

“As the program’s name suggests, people of color and other minorities are often at a disadvantage when starting and growing their businesses. Startup costs, licensing and other institutional barriers can prevent diversity in business ownership,” Avelar said. “The Disadvantaged Business Enterprise program and the workshops hosted by IDOT are great opportunities for business owners of underrepresented backgrounds to expand their expertise, network and build their reputation within the community.”

IDOT administers the Disadvantaged Business Enterprise program to help businesses owned and operated by minorities participate in transportation contracts that use federal funds. Workshops will continue through April and include topics such as bidding, insurance, bonding, risk management and Disadvantaged Business Enterprise program certification.

November workshop dates and topics include:

• Nov. 1, 10 a.m. to noon: Expansion of Work Category Codes
• Nov. 3, 10 a.m. to noon: QuickBooks Part 1- Setting up your company
• Nov. 8, 10 a.m. to noon: Accounting Best Practices & Financial Reporting
• Nov. 10, 10 a.m. to noon: Improving Your Personal & Business (D&B) Credit Score
• Nov. 15, 10 a.m. to noon: Navigating the IDOT Website (Basic)
• Nov. 17, 10 a.m. to noon: Navigating the IDOT Website (Advanced)
• Nov. 29, 10 a.m. to noon: QuickBooks Part 2 – Performing Day to Day, Part 2

For more information on becoming a certified Disadvantaged Business Enterprise firm or available IDOT resources, please visit www.idot.illinois.gov/dbe.