Social Responsibility
Social Responsibility
Social Responsibility Division
The Port of Oakland’s Social Responsibility Division (SRD) helps strengthen the economic and social vitality of Oakland, neighboring communities, and the broader region. We support local businesses and invest in workforce development programs to create long-term benefits for our local residents and businesses.
Our efforts focus on expanding opportunities across four key areas – Programs & Policies, Workforce Development, Community Relations, and Local, Small & Diverse Business Programs.
Social Responsibility
Programs & Policies
SRD develops programs and policies that expand access to contracting and economic opportunities for local, small, and disadvantaged businesses. Our team adheres to regulatory compliance with federal, state, local, and Port policies, including:
Workforce Development
We partner and support workforce development programs to promote fair labor and wage standards and prepare the next generation of workers for Port-related employment opportunities. Through partnerships and compliance efforts—including the Port’s Maritime and Aviation Project Labor Agreement (MAPLA)—we support fair treatment of workers and connect them with opportunities for sustainable employment.
Community Relations
SRD hosts regular public forums to share updates on Port projects and gather community input. Our outreach efforts include strategic partnerships and educational programs, like:
Local, Small & Diverse Business Programs
SRD supports local entrepreneurs, small, minority-owned, woman-owned, and locally owned businesses. We offer support through a certification process that helps businesses gain visibility and access to Port contracting opportunities.
The Port encourages participation through its Non-Discrimination and Small Local Business Utilization Policy (NDSLBUP), which includes:
- Preference points for qualifying businesses
- Set-aside contracts for small businesses
- Technical assistance and resources
- Enhanced access through the Alternative Project Delivery Approaches (APDA) policy
