About Us
INTRODUCTION
UF Small Business Relations (SBR) is an important function of administrative management at the institution. We provide support to departments and academic units regarding the use of small businesses including (Women, Minority, Veteran, Service-disabled Veteran, Hub Zone, and Disadvantaged businesses). In addition, we establish and implement programs and services designed to promote equal access to compete for procurement opportunities for these firms. This department works closely with Procurement, Planning, Design & Construction, Disbursements and Facilities Services.
This Chapter establishes uniform procedures relating to the utilization of small businesses in the purchase of commodities and services needed in the operation of the University. The procedures stated herein shall apply to all purchases of commodities and services paid from state appropriations, grants, or auxiliaries.
MISSION STATEMENT
Our mission is to seek out, identify, and promote the use of small businesses that provide services and/or commodities procured by the institution. We ensure equal access to compete for procurement & contracting opportunities with the University. In addition, we offer small business development services to support a competent pool of suppliers to address the University’s procurement expectations.
RESPONSIBILITY AND AUTHORITY
The Director of Small Business Relations reports to the Associate Vice President for Business Affairs, and is responsible for program development, promotion, implementation, compliance monitoring, and reporting. The Director works closely with university departments and academic units, small businesses, governmental entities, and community-based organizations toward the diversification of the University’s supplier base.
CONSTRUCTION – COMPETITIVE BIDS
Bidders on construction projects are encouraged to include small business enterprises on their projects. The University is an equal opportunity institution and as such, encourages the use of small businesses, including (Women, Minority, Veteran, Service-disabled Veteran, Hub-Zone and Disadvantaged) in the provision of such services. These firms should have a fair and equal opportunity to compete for dollars spent by the University on construction. Competition ensures that prices are competitive and a broad vendor base is available.