If you're in the construction industry and interested in working on City-funded projects, the EBO Program provides several pathways to make your business more competitive.
Contractors who take steps to support local workers, partner with Micro Local Business Enterprises (MLBEs), and invest in workforce development can qualify for up to 5% bid discounts during the evaluation of their proposals. The maximum discount available is $100,000 per bid.
However, a select group of four (4) bid discounts may be applied individually or in combination with other discounts to exceed the 5% or $100,000 limit—up to a maximum of 10% or $200,000, whichever is lower. Unless otherwise specified, all bid discounts remain valid through December 31st of the calendar year in which they are granted.
Some of the ways you can qualify include:
- Partnering with MLBEs as subcontractors or in a joint venture
- Employing Grand Rapids residents, especially those from neighborhoods in the City's Neighborhoods of Focus (NOFs)
- Participating in programs that train and mentor small or emerging construction businesses
- Employing graduates from recognized construction training programs
- Utilizing MLBEs in your private sector, non-City projects.
For a complete list of all available discounts and how they can apply to your business, please visit the Administrative Guidelines for Construction (600-12).
These discounts are designed to reward companies who contribute to the City's goals around equity, workforce development, and inclusive economic participation.
Even if your bid isn’t the lowest on paper, these discounts might make your proposal the most competitive during the evaluation process.
Important Note: Before bidding on City construction projects, you’ll also need to complete the City's online prequalification process through the Engineering Department.
Please complete the applications below (online or printed) to apply for the Construction Bid Did Discounts
