Small & Diverse Suppliers
UC Riverside is committed to expanding opportunities for small and diverse businesses and making it easier for campus buyers to identify qualified suppliers.
UCR’s Small Business First program provides a streamlined purchasing pathway for eligible certified businesses, while UC supplier platforms can help increase your visibility and connect you with opportunities across the University of California.
Small Business First at UCR
UC Riverside supports the University of California’s systemwide goal of achieving 25% annual small business utilization across non-construction goods and service contracts.
UCR’s Small Business First (SBF) program applies to qualifying non-construction purchases and contracts between $15,000 and $250,000. Whenever practicable, these purchases are awarded to certified Small Businesses (SBs) or Disabled Veteran Business Enterprises (DVBEs) that meet University requirements.
| Purchase Range | Small Business First Requirement |
|---|---|
| $1–$14,999 | No bids are required. Purchases are made at the buyer’s discretion. |
| $15,000–$100,000 | Minimum of one quote from a certified Small Business or DVBE. |
| $100,000–$250,000 | Minimum of two quotes from certified Small Businesses or DVBEs. |
| Over $250,000 | The purchase exceeds Small Business First limits and may require a formal competitive solicitation. |
When a purchase meets Small Business First requirements, it may proceed through an informal quotation process without advertising or a formal Request for Proposal (RFP).
Learn About Small Business First
Get Ready for Opportunities
| Step | What to Do |
|---|---|
| 1. Get Certified | Obtain an eligible Small Business or DVBE certification to qualify for Small Business First opportunities. |
| 2. Register with SupplierOne | Create and maintain a SupplierOne profile so UCR and other UC buyers can find your business. |
| 3. Register with CalUsource | Register in UC’s eSourcing platform to participate in sourcing and bidding opportunities across the University of California. |
| 4. Review UC Terms & Conditions | Review the University of California Terms and Conditions of Purchase to understand the requirements associated with doing business with UC. |
| 5. Keep Your Certification Current | If you are established as a UCR supplier, upload your current certification and expiration date in the UCR Supplier/Payee Portal. |
Small & Diverse Business Certifications
The University of California recognizes certifications issued by federal agencies, state agencies, and approved third-party certification organizations.
Recognized business classifications may include:
- Small Business
- Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise
- Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Business
- Small Disadvantaged Business
- Woman-Owned Business
- Veteran-Owned Business
- LGBTQ-Owned Business
- Minority-Owned Business
- 8(a) Business Development
- HUBZone Certified Business
UCR’s Small Business First purchasing requirements specifically prioritize eligible certified Small Businesses and Disabled Veteran Business Enterprises (DVBEs). Other recognized certifications help UC identify and engage diverse suppliers for broader sourcing and outreach opportunities.
Already Certified?
If your business is already certified, keep your certification information current.
Once your organization has been invited to and established in the UCR Supplier/Payee Portal, upload a valid certification document and its expiration date so your certification status is reflected in your supplier profile.
Certification and supplier registration can increase your visibility and help you qualify for applicable purchasing opportunities, but they do not guarantee future purchases or a specific volume of business.
Get Certified
Not yet certified? Explore certification resources for Small Businesses, Disabled Veteran Business Enterprises, and other diverse business classifications recognized by the University of California.
View Small & Diverse Business Certification Resources
Need Help?
For questions about Small Business First, certification, or small and diverse supplier resources, contact the UCR Procurement Services Small Business Administrator at purchasing@ucr.edu.