W.A.T.E.R. 1.0
Build Your Business for
California's Water Utility Industry

A three-session supplier development program designed to help small businesses understand the water utility industry, strengthen procurement readiness, and position for future contracting opportunities.

APPLICATION PERIOD
JULY 14 – JULY 28, 2026
WHAT YOU WILL GAIN

UNDERSTAND

Gain an understanding of California's water utility industry.

PREPARE

Strengthen your procurement readiness and business positioning.

CONNECT

Learn how utilities identify and engage qualified suppliers.

GROW

Position your business for future contracting opportunities.

W.A.T.E.R. 1.0 PROGRAM OVERVIEW
SESSION 1
Understanding California's Water Industry

Industry overview & key stakeholders · GO 156 & the Utility Supplier Diversity Program · water utility procurement fundamentals · market trends & supplier opportunities.

SESSION 2
Positioning Your Business for Success

Branding & value proposition · capability statements · elevator pitch development · business readiness & growth strategies.

SESSION 3
Preparing for Opportunity

Regulatory environment · procurement & sourcing processes · supplier presentations · action planning for future opportunities.

WHO SHOULD APPLY
This program is designed for California small businesses that:
✓

Are interested in doing business with California’s investor-owned water utilities.

✓
Offer products or services relevant to the utility industry.
✓

Are committed to growing their business and expanding into new markets.

✓
Can actively participate in all three program sessions.
PROGRAM DETAILS
COHORT SIZE
20 to 25 selected businesses
PROGRAM FORMAT
Three in-person sessions
SESSION DATES

August 4, 2026 · August 11, 2026 · September 1, 2026

TIME
8:00 AM – 12:00 PM (All sessions)
LOCATION
San Dimas, California (Specific venue details provided to selected participants)
IMPORTANT DATES
JULY 14
Applications Open
JULY 28
Application Deadline
JULY 24
Selected Participants Notified
JULY 29
Participation Confirmation Due
AUGUST 4
Program Begins
APPLY TODAY.
SPACE IS LIMITED.
APPLICATION DEADLINE
JULY 28, 2026

Participation is limited to a select cohort of 20 to 25 businesses. Applications will be evaluated to assemble a cohort representing a diverse mix of industries, capabilities, and businesses committed to strengthening their readiness to compete in California’s water utility marketplace.

PRESENTED BY
Utility Supplier
Diversity Program Committee
CO-DEVELOPED/FACILITATED BY