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.
February 11, 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
February 13, 2026 (12 PM - 1:PM) Navigating County Contracts: Preparing Your Business for County Contracts
This session will provide a practical legal foundation for businesses seeking to contract with the County, focusing on how to maintain a business that is in good standing and to prepare to bid on county contracts. The discussion will include an overview of common entity types, when and why a “doing business as” name may be required, and best practices for maintaining corporate records and formalities. This session will also address registration with the Office of the Chief Procurement Officer and how to strategically evaluate bid opportunities to ensure the business has the capacity and resources to successfully fulfill the contract. Attendees will receive a high-level overview of the County’s procurement process to help them navigate public sector contracting effectively and the session will conclude with an overview of the process for obtaining women, minority, and veteran-owned certifications. Register Here
February 25, 2026 (12 PM - 1 PM) Fireside Chat: The State of Procurement for FY2026
Get ahead of the curve and position your business for success in the new year! Join Cook County’s Chief Procurement Officer and the Director of Capital Planning and Policy for an exclusive, virtual procurement chat focused County contracting.
During this discussion, the County’s leadership will be sharing valuable information on the upcoming fiscal year where you will gain:
- A first look at the FY2026 procurement landscape
- An overview of major capital initiatives and their timing
- Practical guidance on what the County looks for in winning submissions
Registration Details Coming Soon
March 11, 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
April 8, 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
May 13, 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
June 10, 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
July 8, 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
August 12, 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
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 (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