Purpose and Function

The Office of Small Business Development is committed to ensuring fair and open access to procurement and contracting opportunities sponsored by the School District. We support the participation of small businesses through certification programs, outreach events, training workshops, contract reviews, project readiness evaluations, bid preferences, and tailored networking opportunities.



Our goal is to promote competition by removing barriers that may limit participation. We work closely with internal departments to ensure qualified small businesses have a fair chance to compete for contracts at all procurement levels, including both prime and subcontracting roles.

Expand Impact: Partnerships, Visibility & Strategic Growth

Increasing impact through partnerships, visibility, and smart growth, requires going beyond simple exchanges. You should focus on building strong relationships that help you grow faster, share risks, and create benefits for everyone involved.

At the SDPBC Office of Small Business Development Construction Summit on February 25, 2026, the focus was "Strategic Matchmaking: Prequalification & Partnerships." This dedicated networking opportunity was designed to facilitate high-impact connections between subcontractors and the 18 prime contractors onsite. By diving deep into the fundamental needs of Tier 1 and Tier 2 subcontractors, the Summit emphasized that true strategic matchmaking requires a shift in mindset from simple networking to collaborative growth. The takeaway was clear: Don’t just rely on a business card; create a partnership.

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Your Vision. Our Roadmap. Real Results.

Small Business owners: Whether you're just launching or a seasoned pro, Small Business University (SBU) is your 2026 growth engine. Join us for an elite, eight-session series curated by industry experts to help you navigate the modern market.

Scaling Strong. Stabilizing Smart. Winning Bigger.



This is a no-cost opportunity to work on your business rather than just in it. Secure your space for these transformative weekly sessions.

Sessions run Thursday, May 7 - July 16 (no session June 18 or July 2 in observance of holidays)

4:00 - 6:00 PM

Live via ZOOM

Register today to claim your seat!

Each of these projects include SBE participation requirements, creating millions in opportunities for certified small businesses.



To be counted toward these goals, your business must be certified with our office. Click the button below to learn how to get certified.

Once certified, register your business with BidNet Direct to stay apprised of upcoming District solicitations.

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Register today to certify your small business with OSBD!

Ready to grow your business? The School District of Palm Beach County (SDPBC) is here to help you succeed. Discover how becoming a certified Small Business Enterprise (SBE) can expand your reach, boost your credibility, and connect you to prime contractors and direct District opportunities.

Tuesday, April 21, 2026

10:00–11:00 AM | Via Zoom

Don’t miss this chance to unlock powerful advantages and position your business for future success.

Register below and take the next step toward greater opportunities!

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Stay Informed: Registering Your Business with BidNet Direct!

Discover how to tap into upcoming contract opportunities with the School District of Palm Beach County through BidNet Direct—the e-procurement bid notification service. Learn how to register, receive real-time alerts, and access valuable insights into upcoming solicitations. Plus, find out how OSBD certification can help boost your visibility and opportunity.

Thursday, May 19, 2026

10:00–11:00 AM | Via Zoom

Register below and take the next step toward staying informed!

Panelists discuss from the Prime Contractor perspective how opportunities flow from them down to Tier 1 (larger subcontractor firms) and to Tier 2 (smaller subcontractor firms).

On Wednesday, February 25, the energy was high as the School District of Palm Beach County’s Office of Small Business Development hosted its 2026 Construction Summit. The theme, “Building the Construction Pipeline: How Opportunities Flow, Grow, and Scale,” was about more than just business, it was about making sure everyone, from big prime contractors to small local trades and even our students, has a seat at the table.

The day brought together District leaders and contractors of all sizes to talk honestly about how work gets awarded and how local firms can grow alongside the District.

A huge thank you to our numerous sponsors for making this day possible!

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Justin Kasper, President of Kasper Electric shares critical information with SDPBC Construction Academy students helping them get a clear vision for the future.

To see the awardees, click the image above to view a short video.

Celebrating Excellence: Highlights from the 1st Annual SBE Subcontractor Awards

The 2026 Construction Summit concluded on a high note with a landmark event: our first-ever SBE Subcontractor Awards. It was a proud and powerful moment for the industry to see prime contractors step up to nominate small businesses, recognizing the flexibility, skill, and dedication these firms bring to our local projects.



From fresh faces making an immediate impact to seasoned firms delivering flawless results, the ceremony shone a spotlight on the backbone of our construction community.

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Small Business University graduation; sponsored by Kaufman Lynn

Building a Legacy of People and Purpose: Spotlight on Kaufman Lynn Construction

Kaufman Lynn Construction leverages its role as a prime contractor for the Palm Beach County School District to foster local economic growth. By mentoring Small Business Enterprises and sponsoring Small Business University, the employee-owned firm prioritizes community impact alongside high-quality construction. Their commitment to partnership and "client-first" philosophy has earned them numerous advocacy awards and a high rate of repeat business, proving that building facilities and building community go hand in hand.

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Jeff Zalkin, VP of Development for Kaufman Lynn, addresses the audience, sharing they work to support small businesses.

Dr. Gifford leads her small group of entrepreneurs in a lively discussion on qualities that make a partnership with a larger contractor or peer business mutually beneficial and sustainable.

More Than a Certificate: The Impact of Active Engagement

With over 20 years of expertise, Dr. Trishanna Gifford of Blessed Staging & Construction demonstrates that certification is only the beginning. Since becoming an SBE in 2021, her proactive engagement—from mentoring at Small Business University to partnering with Moss & Associates on major District projects—has fueled her growth. Dr. Gifford’s journey proves that while certification provides access, active participation and visibility are what truly turn opportunities into community-building success.

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Mueller Construction Company supports School District initiatives via site tours, career shadowing, and skill demos, highlighting vocational pathways and the essential role of STEM in construction trades.

Building Excellence as a Certified SBE and Bid-Awarded Vendor

As a certified Small Business Enterprise (SBE), Mueller Construction Company has expanded from securing Goods & Services contracts to achieving Construction Purchasing prequalification. These milestones reflect years of building dedicated relationships with local government and the School District.

For aspiring SBEs, certification is the foundation, not the finish line. Success requires proactive engagement: attend every District workshop, ask questions, and meticulously review bid documents. Focus on turning networking into genuine partnerships with prime contractors and personnel. Ultimately, delivering exceptional work on your first project is the best way to build the trust necessary to grow from a vendor to a valued partner.

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Calling all Toner and Photoconductor Providers!

Position your business for the upcoming solicitation. Join us for an exclusive briefing to gain the insights and connections needed to submit a successful bid.

• Meet the Decision-Maker: Connect with Purchasing Agent Justin Jaksa to discuss solicitation scope and technical requirements.
• Master the Platform: Learn how to register with BidNet Direct for real-time notifications and future opportunities.
• Small Business Advantage: Discover how OSBD certification provides a competitive edge.

Thursday, April 23, 2026

10:00–11:00 AM | Via Zoom

Get ahead of the curve—join us and get bid-ready.