(November 19, 2024) Department of Administrative Services (DAS) Commissioner Michelle Gilman and the DAS Procurement team today announced the launch of CT Gateway, a new cloud-based portal aimed at streamlining the user experience for those who do business with the state. Ultimately, CT Gateway will host the applications for several programs within DAS Procurement; starting today, the first application, Small/Minority Business Enterprise (S/MBE), has been moved to CT Gateway.
The S/MBE application on CT Gateway includes several new, user-friendly processes:
- Mobile-friendly application
- Greater accessibility for individuals with disabilities
- Realtime application status
- Immediate inclusion in a web-based directory of certified S/MBEs
The previous Biznet legacy application system will no longer be used for S/MBE applications. Other agencies will continue to use Biznet for various functions.
Beginning in 2025, DAS will be expanding CT Gateway to include additional programs:
- Construction Contractor Prequalification Application
- State Surplus Property and Vehicles
- Federal Surplus Property
CT Gateway can be accessed at the following link – ct.gov/ctgateway
“Improving technology and making it easier for small businesses to interact with the state is an important priority of our department and of Governor Lamont’s administration. We’re pleased to launch CT Gateway and are confident that it will yield a better, more user-friendly experience,” said DAS Commissioner Michelle Gilman.
“Improving the online customer experience is critical for our small businesses who need clear direction and easy access to the resources they need to grow. I applaud the DAS team for investing in these improvements that will strengthen connections to our business community and broaden opportunities for those looking to engage with state government,” said Daniel O’Keefe, Commissioner of the Department of Economic and Community Development.
"Our partnership with Connecticut’s DAS has opened doors for small and minority-owned businesses to access contracting opportunities. We appreciate their commitment to streamlining the certification process, which will increase participation, ensuring inclusions and opportunity for Connecticut's business community" stated, Catherine Marx, Director of the U.S. Small Business Administration.
Marisol Hererra, State Director of Connecticut APEX Accelerator added, "We share the DAS's commitment to helping Connecticut's businesses access contracting opportunities. This new application represents a significant step forward in making government processes more accessible to a wider array of businesses."
Jennifer Little-Greer, Executive Director of the Minority Construction Council said, "The MCC is excited that the DAS has improved the accessibility of the S/MBE application. The new enhancements will allow for more small contractors to complete the application and become certified with ease. This streamlined application process will allow for DAS to be more efficient in empowering more minority-owned businesses to thrive."
Steven Semaya, Associate Director of CT Supplier Connection said, "We value our partnership with the DAS as our mutual support of small and minority-owned businesses has helped improve access to opportunities. This new application will further enhance our clients’ ability to navigate the certification process, fostering greater inclusivity."
The Supplier Diversity Program certifies Small Business Enterprise and Minority Business Enterprise (S/MBE) companies. Certification opens valuable avenues towards economic growth by helping companies build revenue and find potential new customers through set-asides and inclusion in an online directory used by state and private industry to identify vendors.
To be eligible for this free certification, businesses must be Connecticut-based, independently run, and registered as small businesses with the Federal System for Award Management (SAM). MBEs include businesses owned by members of racial or ethnic minorities, women, and persons with disabilities.
If you have questions or concerns, please email DAS-DLSupplierDiversity@ct.gov.
