California Construction Institute and California Black Chamber of Commerce Launch “Building Bridges” Campaign

Event Connects Microbusinesses With Construction Industry Leaders To Close Labor Compliance Gap

SACRAMENTO, CA - March 23, 2025 - The California Construction Institute (CCI) and California Black Chamber of Commerce (CBCC) hosted the first installment of their collaborative “Building Bridges” campaign at 1442 On The Blvd in Sacramento. The event, which ran from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m., featured an Educational Symposium and a Building Bridges Mixer aimed at helping micro and mini-micro businesses connect with state agencies and construction employers to overcome barriers to labor compliance.

The campaign focuses on bridging the divide between small business owners seeking work under California mandates AB 1574 and AB 2019 and the public and private sector organizations aiming to fulfill them. Many of these small businesses lack the resources to meet compliance standards, while employers face challenges finding qualified, compliant vendors.

In accordance with AB 2019, which mandates state agencies to formulate and implement an “economic equity first” action plan and policy by January 1, 2024, the symposium brought together state agencies and support organizations to offer tangible solutions. Attendees accessed funding and compliance resources at tabletop stations hosted by Caltrans, the Department of General Services (DGS), California Military Department, Foundation for California Community Colleges (FCCC), and others.

Jay King, President and CEO of CBCC, delivered opening and closing remarks and moderated the speaker lineup, which included Ana Lasso, Director of DGS; Tara Lynn Gray, Director of the Office of the Small Business Advocate; Grace Magsayo from Caltrans; and JC Sales, Executive Vice President of FCCC.

A dynamic panel discussion followed, featuring Marcus Delfin of the California Military Department, Allison Kenngott of DGS, and Dalia Demian from the Department of Transportation’s Office of Civil Rights. JC Sales also joined the discussion, moderated by Joann Patty of DGS.

Guests networked over food and refreshments provided by 1442 On The Blvd.

About the California Construction Institute

The California Construction Institute is a nonprofit organization of diverse professionals committed to improving the construction industry through knowledge-sharing and relationship building.