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 13 – JULY 17, 2026
WHAT YOU WILL GAIN
UNDERSTAND
Gain a foundational 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 · CD 15A & 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.

REGISTRATION FORM — REPLACE
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 30 selected businesses
PROGRAM FORMAT
Three in-person sessions
SESSION DATES

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

TIME
9:00 AM – 3:00 PM (All sessions)
LOCATION
Southern California (Specific venue details provided to selected participants)
IMPORTANT DATES
JULY 13
Applications Open
JULY 17
Application Deadline
JULY 24
Notification of Selected Participants
JULY 29
Participation Confirmation Due
AUGUST 4
Program Begins
APPLY TODAY.
SPACE IS LIMITED.
APPLICATION DEADLINE
JULY 17, 2026

Participation is limited to a select cohort of 20 to 30 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
FACILITATED BY