Business Enterprise Development Events

We are expanding our outreach efforts and providing numerous helpful opportunities to engage with our office. Please check here regularly for updates and events that may be of interest to you and your business. 

Upcoming Trainings

Upcoming trainings are added quarterly. Links to register for events can be found below.

August 5, 2026 (1 PM - 3: PM) Construction Matchmaking Information Session

Get ready for the Construction Matchmaking Event at the Pathways to Cook County Procurement Summit! The Office of the Chief Procurement Officer (OCPO) and the Bureau of Asset Management (BAM) are hosting a dedicated information session to help businesses maximize their engagement on August 12.

During this session, attendees will learn how to prepare for one-on-one networking with Cook County’s CMAR and JOC Prime Contractors, including Gordian, Walsh, Bulley & Andrews, Provident, Stroger, and Schaumburg Highway Facility CMAR teams. Vendors in General Construction, Electrical, Mechanical, Plumbing, Site Work, and Environmental Services are especially encouraged to attend.

The full Summit will also include panel discussions on Construction Procurement and IT Procurement. This preparation session is a valuable opportunity for businesses seeking subcontracting opportunities or planning to pursue future Cook County projects. Register Here

August 12, 2026 (9 AM - 3 PM) Pathways to Cook County Summit

The 4th Annual Pathways Summit is a free, hands-on event connecting businesses directly with Cook County. Meet county agencies, explore vendor and contracting opportunities, and learn how to get certified — all in one place. Attend workshops on how to do business with the county, network with other business owners and contractors, and learn how to access procurement and grant opportunities to help your business grow.This event will be taking place at the UIC Dorin Forum, 725 W. Roosevelt Road, Chicago, Illinois. Register Here

August 14, 2026 (12 PM - 1 PM) Navigating County Contracts: Mitigating Risk in County Contracting

This session will focus on strategies businesses can use to mitigate legal and operational risks when contracting with the County. We will begin by emphasizing the importance of protecting confidential information, including the County’s. Attendees will learn about the different types of intellectual property rights and best practices for safeguarding them, including maintaining ownership of their intellectual property and using work made for hire provisions to secure rights to intellectual property created by subcontractors. This session will also cover key risk management measures such as carrying adequate insurance, maintaining proper licenses and permits, and ensuring compliance with applicable laws and County regulations. Finally, we will discuss contractual tools to protect the business, including non-solicitation clauses to prevent the loss of employees or clients and strategies to reduce exposure if there is a dispute. Register Here

September 9, 2026 (2 PM - 3 PM) Getting Certified with Cook County

Join the Center for Business Enterprise Development under the Office of the Chief Procurement Officer for a 60-minute informational session on the certification application and review process. This session will cover required documentation, key steps, and common questions. Attendees will have the opportunity to connect with a member of the team and gain confidence in submitting a complete and accurate application. Register Here

October 14, 2026 (2 PM - 3 PM) The MEPs of Certification: Maintaining, Expanding, & Prepping

Join the Center for Business Enterprise Development under the Office of the Chief Procurement Officer for a 60-minute informational session to learn the next steps. We’ll guide you through steps to maximize your certification, including tips on leveraging new opportunities, navigating the procurement process, and growing your business. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to gain knowledge in converting an approved certification into successful contract opportunities. Register Here

November 18, 2026 (12 PM - 1 PM) Navigating County Contracts: Building Success for Veteran Entrepreneurs

This session will focus on the legal and practical considerations governing the prime contractor and subcontractor relationship. The discussion will begin with the common pitfall of misclassifying employees as independent contractors and provide guidance on how to avoid making such mistakes. Attendees will learn why written subcontractor agreements are essential and the importance of complying with contractual terms throughout the duration of the project. The session will emphasize the need for subcontractor agreements to incorporate required provisions from the County’s prime contract, including confidentiality and data protection obligations, ownership of intellectual property, indemnification, insurance, and compliance with applicable laws and County policies. The session will conclude with practical guidance on addressing and resolving subcontractor breaches. Register Here

November 18, 2026 (2 PM - 3 PM) Getting Certified with Cook County

Join the Center for Business Enterprise Development under the Office of the Chief Procurement Officer for a 60-minute informational session on the certification application and review process. This session will cover required documentation, key steps, and common questions. Attendees will have the opportunity to connect with a member of the team and gain confidence in submitting a complete and accurate application. Register Here