Port of Oakland holds event to assist small, local and diverse contractors

Oakland, Calif. – August 9, 2023:  The Port of Oakland held a Proposal Writing and Business Development Exposition and Workshop last week. The event was designed to help local, small and diverse contractors to gain skills that help them access contractor opportunities on large construction projects. The event at Webcor’s Alameda offices also offered networking and information about current and future business opportunities.

“The Port of Oakland is dedicated to providing small, local businesses the opportunity to participate in construction and development projects, especially those that promote good environmental stewardship,” said Port of Oakland Director of Social Responsibility Amy Tharpe. “The success of our small, local businesses is intertwined with the success of our Port and the City.”

Two large construction management, engineering and design firms, Ghirardelli Associates and HNTB Corporation, participated in the workshop. Both companies have major contracts with the Port.

The Richmond-based Renaissance Entrepreneurship Center was on hand to help interested contractors navigate the proposal writing process. This non-profit works to support the launch of new businesses and maximizes existing, small businesses’ potential by providing a variety of training and consulting services.

The focus of the event was to offer assistance to small contractors who are writing proposals to primary contractors for potential sub-contracts on Port of Oakland projects. These projects are in the Port’s maritime and aviation divisions.

It is the Port’s goal to encourage primary contractors to use small, local contractors on their projects. Doing so supports local employment and economic vitality for Oakland and the region. The Port and its partners support more than 98,000 jobs in Northern California.

About the Port of Oakland

The Port of Oakland oversees the Oakland Seaport, Oakland International Airport, nearly 20 miles of waterfront including Jack London Square, and a publicly owned utility. The Port's 5-year strategic plan - Growth with Care - pairs business expansion with community benefits, envisioning more jobs and economic stimulus as the Port grows. Together with its business partners, the Port supports more than 98,000 jobs. Connect with the Port of Oakland and Oakland International Airport through Facebook and Twitter, or with the Port on LinkedIn, YouTube, and at www.portofoakland.com.

Media Contacts

Robert Bernardo
Port of Oakland
Communications Director
(510) 627-1401
[email protected]

Marilyn Sandifur
Port of Oakland
Media/PR Manager
(510) 627-1193
[email protected]

David DeWitt
Port of Oakland
Media/PR Specialist
(510) 627-1169
[email protected]