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.
September 17, 2025 (2 p.m - 3 p.m.) Getting Certified with Cook County
Join the Center for Business Enterprise Development under the Office of the Chief Procurement Officer for a 45-minute informational session explaining the certification application and review process. We understand that applying for certification is in-depth and involves several documents. This informational workshop is geared to go over the details, get your questions answered, and meet a member of the team. You don’t want to miss this valuable opportunity to gain confidence in your application submission! Register Here
September 24, 2025 (1 p.m. - 2 p.m.) Candid Conversation With A County Contractor
Join the Center for Business Enterprise Development, under the Office of the Chief Procurement Officer, for a 60-minute session with Rachel Canning, CEO of RL Canning. With 25+ years in IT and digital workplace solutions, RL Canning is a certified MBE, has used her certification to secure subcontracting work with Cook County and other agencies. Learn how to leverage MBE certification to win government contracts, attract prime contractors, and build lasting partnerships through proven performance. Register Here
September 25, 2025 (2 p.m. - 3 p.m.) Selecting My NAICS Codes & Business Advising Webinar: Presented By the Center Of Business Enterprise Development & The Small Business Source
Join the Center for Business Enterprise Development under the Office of the Chief Procurement Officer for an informational session to learn how to select the right NAICS codes for your business. Whether you're applying for certification for the first time or expanding your certification codes, this session will provide key insights and practical guidance to help you navigate the NAICS code selection process with confidence.
Then discover business advising through The Source! The Source’s business advising program provides no-cost, one-on-one business advising facilitated by trusted advisors from our network of Business Support Organizations (BSOs) located throughout Cook County. The Source matches business owners with an advisor who provides the expertise needed to help advance small business owners to the next level. Register Here
October 15, 2025 (2 p.m - 3 p.m.) The MEPs of Certification: Maintaining, Expanding, & Prepping
Join the Center for Business Enterprise Development under the Office of the Chief Procurement Officer for a 45-minute info 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 19, 2025 (2 p.m - 3 p.m.) Getting Certified with Cook County
Join the Center for Business Enterprise Development under the Office of the Chief Procurement Officer for a 45-minute informational session explaining the certification application and review process. We understand that applying for certification is in-depth and involves several documents. This informational workshop is geared to go over the details, get your questions answered, and meet a member of the team. You don’t want to miss this valuable opportunity to gain confidence in your application submission! Register Here
December 17, 2025 (2 p.m - 3 p.m.) The MEPs of Certification: Maintaining, Expanding, & Prepping
Join the Center for Business Enterprise Development under the Office of the Chief Procurement Officer for a 45-minute info 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