The California High-Speed Rail Authority (CHSRA) has hosted its annual Small Business Diversity and Resources Fair in Burlingame, welcoming around 300 small business representatives from across the state.
The event, held at the Burlingame Community Centre, provided opportunities for small firms to meet with prime contractors, state procurement specialists and project officials involved in the high-speed rail programme. More than 40 exhibitors attended the fair, alongside a dedicated workshop on how to participate in state contracting processes.
Supporting Small Business Participation
According to the Authority, 953 certified small businesses have contributed to the California High-Speed Rail project so far, including microbusinesses and Disabled Veteran Business Enterprises (DVBEs). This reflects the project’s ongoing inclusion targets of 25% small business participation, with at least 3% each for microbusinesses and DVBEs.
Catrina Blair, Authority’s Small Business Development and Compliance Chief said:Small business participation is vital for the California high-speed rail project. Every year, more small businesses join the program, which is a testament to the Authority’s commitment to advancing economic equity in State contracts. This event opens the door for many entrepreneurs to do business with the state and access valuable resources.
In addition to the exhibition area, the fair included business matchmaking sessions with 18 of the Authority’s major contractors, allowing suppliers to discuss potential partnerships and upcoming work packages.
Progress on High-Speed Rail Construction
Meanwhile, construction of the California High-Speed Rail continues along the 171-mile section between Merced and Bakersfield, with ongoing works across Madera, Fresno, Kings and Tulare counties. To date, the Authority reports that more than 70 miles of guideway have been completed, along with 60 major structures, while nearly 30 additional structures are under construction.
Across the wider system, 463 miles of the planned 494-mile route between San Francisco and Los Angeles/Anaheim have now received full environmental clearance.
The project has also generated over 16,000 construction jobs since work began, the majority filled by residents from California’s Central Valley. On average, around 1,700 workers are active on construction sites each day.
Building a Local Supply Chain
The CHSRA’s small business programme is designed to ensure that companies of all sizes can contribute to the state’s long-term transport investment. By connecting smaller firms with large contractors and procurement experts, the Authority aims to strengthen local supply chains and support regional economic participation in the high-speed rail network.
