
San Joaquin SBDC Certification Program: Hands-On Certification Training for Small Businesses
Are you a small business owner in San Joaquin County looking to get certified and compete for government contracts or grant opportunities?
The San Joaquin SBDC’s Certification Program is designed just for you.
This free, in-person training series will guide you step-by-step through the business certification process — helping you understand which certifications you qualify for and how to apply with confidence. You’ll also receive dedicated one-on-one support from an expert advisor to help you successfully complete and submit your applications.
Please note: This training is designed as an interactive, hands-on working session. To fully participate and complete key activities during the session, we kindly ask that you bring a laptop or tablet (iPad or similar) with you. If you are unable to bring a device, we will have printouts of the presentation for notetaking.”
What the Program Offers
- In-Person Certification Workshops
- Attend cohort-style, hands-on workshops (offered monthly from May–December 2025).
- Sessions are held across San Joaquin County, including in Tracy, Ripon, Lodi, Manteca, Mountain House, and Stockton.
- Learn directly from experts in small business certification. Our certification experts have over 25 years’ experience in the industry.
- Access to training materials and forms during the workshop.
- One-on-One Business Advising
- Every participant is provided free, personalized one-on-one advising.
- Get help reviewing documents, submitting applications, and navigating any certification challenges.
- Advising is tailored to your business goals and needs.
Certifications We Cover
Our expert-led training and advising supports the following certifications (eligibility varies by business):
- SBE – Small Business Enterprise
- DVBE – Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise
- SDVBE – Service-Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise
- MBE – Minority Business Enterprise
- WBE – Women Business Enterprise
- DBE – Disadvantaged Business Enterprise
- 8(a) – SBA 8(a) Business Development Program
What You’ll Walk Away With
By the end of the program, you’ll have:
- A clear understanding of which certifications your business is eligible for
- Guidance and resources to complete and submit applications
- Expert advice tailored to your specific business
- Tools to pursue bid opportunities and grants through your certifications
Get Started
Space is limited, and workshops fill quickly!
Visit San Joaquin County Business Certification Program to register for an upcoming cohort or learn more.