Small businesses in Stanislaus County face challenges competing for government and institutional contracts. To help overcome this, Valley Sierra Small Business Development Center (SBDC), hosted by Opportunity Stanislaus, has launched its Contract Ready Program (CRP), an initiative focused on helping local small businesses successfully pursue contract opportunities. It aims to foster long- term economic resilience and growth throughout the county by equipping local businesses with the tools and support needed to go after contracts. Valley Sierra SBDC has also hosted two contracting workshops, bringing together local businesses and public-sector partners to highlight the accessibility of the contracting process and create direct lines of communication between buyers and suppliers. Part of the Central CA Regional SBDC Network since 2003, Valley Sierra SBDC offers no-cost consulting, workshops, and funding support to startups and established businesses.