Small business FAQs

How does SMUD define “small business"?

SMUD defers to the California Department of General Services’ (DGS) definition of a small business:

  1. Independently owned and operated
  2. Not dominant in its field of operation
  3. Principal office located in California
  4. Owners (officers, if a corporation) domiciled in California

For small business certification information, online registration or to request a certification packet please visit the DGS website.


Does my headquarters office need to be in SMUD territory?

Yes, your main office must be a SMUD ratepayer and this address must match the physical address on file with the DGS.


What if I am not a SMUD customer but I lease space in SMUD territory?

You may still qualify, but virtual office spaces and leases require additional review. Please email SEED.mgr@smud.org.


How do I get certified as a small business through the DGS?

For certification information, online registration or to request a certification packet, please visit the DGS website.

 

Become a seed vendor

If I am a certified MBE/WBE small business, do I qualify for the SEED program?

The SEED program provides incentives to certified small businesses headquartered in SMUD’s ratepayer territory.


How do I find SEED vendors?

SMUD does not issue a formal certification; however, you can view your SEED status in PlanetBids following the steps below:

  • Visit smud.org/vendorportal
  • Click “Certified Vendors”
  • Log into your PlanetBids profile
  • Search certified SEED vendors by Vendor Type, License Type, or Vendor Category 

Will I receive a SEED certification document?

SMUD does not issue a formal certification; however, you can view your SEED status in PlanetBids following the steps below:

  • Visit smud.org/vendorportal
  • Click “certified vendors” 
  • Login to your PlanetBids profile
  • Search certified SEED vendors by Vendor Type, License, or Vendor Category

Does my SEED qualification expire?

Yes. Your SEED qualification aligns with your small business certification with the DGS. When your DGS certification expires, so will your SEED qualification. If your main office is under a lease agreement, your SEED verification period may be aligned to when your lease expires. To maintain your SEED status, you can send updated lease information to SEED.mgr@smud.org. 


How do I register as a SEED vendor?

Register in PlanetBids and request SEED eligibility verification for your business and to view and respond to SMUD’s open contracting opportunities. 

  1. Visit smud.org/vendorportal
  2. Click on Vendor Registration 
  3. Fill out the following three fields:
    • Company Name 
    • FEI/SSN
    • Email 
  4. Click “sign-up”
    • You will receive an email. Check your email and select “verify”. You will be directed to the Vendor Registration Form. 
  5. Complete the vendor registration form and be sure to add your UNSPSC codes for your business to ensure you receive bid alert emails. 
  6. Click SEED Certification.
  7. Complete the SEED application fields. 
  8. Check the box under “Certify” and click “Submit”.
  9. For additional registration support contact seed.mgr@smud.org. 
 

How do I register for a workshop or conference?

Visit our small business opportunities page to learn about our special events or visit smud.org/workshops to register for our upcoming classes and workshops.


Why should I get certified?

Only certified small businesses can qualify for the SEED program and participate in sheltered market solicitations. Certified small businesses are included in the State’s Small Business Vendor Database and may receive invitations to bid from many other local agencies using the State’s database.


Who do I contact for assistance?


How can suppliers/bidders look for sub or prime contractors to work with?

  • Visit smud.org/vendorportal
  • Click “certified vendors” 
  • Login to your PlanetBids profile
  • Search certified SEED vendors by Vendor Type, License, or Vendor Category