OUR SERVICES
Practical Solutions. Proven Strategies. Inclusive Growth.
At CANDO Corporation, we provide small and emerging businesses with the technical expertise, strategic insight, and hands-on support needed to thrive in today’s competitive contracting environment. Our services are designed to remove structural barriers, build internal capacity, and unlock new business opportunities across sectors.
Certification Strategy & Support
We guide firms through the process of securing and maintaining certification with local, state, and federal agencies. Our support includes application review, documentation preparation, and strategic positioning to ensure our clients maximize the benefits of being a certified MBE, WBE, DBE, or BEP firm.
Key areas of support:
- City of Chicago D/M/WBE certification
- Cook County and State of Illinois BEP programs
- Illinois Tollway Diversity Programs
- Federal DBE Certification
- Certification renewals, appeals, and status updates
Government Contracting Readiness
Navigating the public procurement process can be complex. We help businesses understand solicitation requirements, assemble competitive bid packages, and prepare for compliance and reporting obligations. We ensure that our clients are ready to pursue and win contracts in construction, energy, infrastructure, and professional services.
Key areas of support:
- Bid document review and preparation
- Vendor registration (SAM.gov, IPG, CPS, Tollway, CTA, etc.)
- Capability statements and prequalification packets
- Compliance checklists and documentation
- Subcontracting and prime contractor navigation
Technical Assistance & Business Development
We offer customized consulting to strengthen business infrastructure, operational systems, and financial capacity. Whether you’re an emerging startup or a growing construction firm, our team helps identify the pain points and build the foundation for sustainable growth.We guide firms through the process of securing and maintaining certification with local, state, and federal agencies. Our support includes application review, documentation preparation, and strategic positioning to ensure our clients maximize the benefits of being a certified MBE, WBE, DBE, or BEP firm.
Key areas of support:
- Business plan development
- Cash flow forecasting and budget review
- Operations and project management coaching
- Insurance, bonding, and licensing guidance
- Access to capital and lender introduction.
Workforce Development & Equity Program Design
We collaborate with institutions, developers, and contractors to build inclusive workforce pipelines. Our team designs, implements, and monitors workforce equity programs that connect underserved communities with training and employment opportunities tied to high-growth industries.
Key areas of support:
- Community hiring plans
- Curriculum and training program design
- Targeted recruitment and job matching
- Labor compliance and workforce monitoring
- Reporting for funders and public agencies
Clean Energy & Sustainability Consulting
CANDO provides advisory and back-office support for contractors participating in Illinois’ renewable energy transition. We work with solar installers, developers, and small trades firms to access funding, meet program requirements, and expand participation among historically excluded groups.We guide firms through the process of securing and maintaining certification with local, state, and federal agencies. Our support includes application review, documentation preparation, and strategic positioning to ensure our clients maximize the benefits of being a certified MBE, WBE, DBE, or BEP firm.
Key areas of support:
- Illinois Solar for All (ILSFA) application and onboarding
- Illinois Shines program eligibility and support
- Site qualification and pre development assistance
- Funding navigation and grant readiness
- Program reporting and compliance documentation
Let’s Build Together
Our team brings a deep understanding of the regulatory, operational, and cultural realities facing small and emerging businesses. Whether you’re seeking certification, preparing your next bid, or planning for growth, CANDO is ready to support you at every stage.Whether you’re a small or emerging business ready to grow—or an agency looking to increase supplier inclusion—we invite you to connect.