The California High-Speed Rail Authority (CHSRA) is making an effort to include Disadvantaged Business Enterprises (DBEs), Disabled Veteran Business Enterprises (DVBEs), as well as other small businesses in the construction and procurement work of the statewide high-speed rail project.

CHSRA's Small Business Program has been created to widen the contracting opportunity spectrum and help firms that have been underrepresented historically to participate. 

The program performs outreach, gives certification advice, and provides small business competition tools for getting design, construction, and professional services work.

Besides, the Authority unveils a variety of small and diverse firm opportunities that are supported by a detailed breakdown of project areas, scopes, and bidding schedules to encourage early involvement of potential subcontractors in the planning phase.

Through defining simple, auditable small business goals, partner firms and industry allies recognize that a double-barreled impact could be achieved, expanding economic impact and building contractor capacity. Strategic partners, including industry consultants, have helped to set up clear and measurable small business goals within the CHSRA project delivery.

Giving a high priority to the involvement of DBE, DVBE, and small businesses is in line with other infrastructure initiatives in California, such as ongoing highway expansions, which are currently under the spotlight of equity advocates. In addition, it is in harmony with workforce development programs such as the state's support for construction apprenticeships, which are aimed at creating long-term contractor and trade capacity.