Outreach and Engagement

RTD and Colorado Minority Business Office roll out online training platform for small businesses

New resource helps entrepreneurs compete for public contracts across Colorado

DENVER (April 27, 2026) –– The Regional Transportation District (RTD), in partnership with the Colorado Minority Business Office (MBO) within the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade, is introducing a training module on the Colorado Business Learning Platform, a new online training resource created by MBO to help small and disadvantaged businesses navigate and compete for government contracts.

The training module, developed by RTD’s Small Business Opportunity Office (SBO), offers on-demand courses that guide entrepreneurs through the RTD procurement processes, certification pathways, and strategies for competing for public sector work. Content is available in English and Spanish to better serve Colorado’s diverse business community. The launch comes as public agencies across the state expand infrastructure investment, therefore increasing opportunities for businesses to participate in government contracting.

“Small businesses are the backbone of our communities. Ensuring they have access to the tools and knowledge needed to compete for public contracts is essential,” said RTD Small Business Opportunity Office Manager Alexis Serrano Castro. “The Colorado Business Learning Platform reflects our commitment to creating equitable pathways for local, small, minority-owned, women-owned, disadvantaged, and other businesses to participate in transportation projects and contribute to Colorado’s growing economy.”

“The Colorado Minority Business Office is committed to expanding opportunities for entrepreneurs across Colorado,” said Azarel Madrigal, Director, Colorado Minority Business Office. “Through our partnership with RTD, the Colorado Business Learning Platform will provide entrepreneurs with the knowledge and resources they need to strengthen their businesses, access new opportunities, and grow within Colorado’s public contracting ecosystem.”

Course Content

The Colorado Business Learning Platform’s first course, “Doing Business with RTD,” introduces users to RTD’s contracting processes and small business programs. Modules include:
• Overview of RTD’s Small Business Enterprise (SBE) Program
• Step-by-step guidance on registering as a vendor with RTD
• Information on SBE certification and how it supports participation in RTD contracts

Additional courses will be added over time.

How to Access the Learning System

The Colorado Business Learning Platform is available online as of April 27. Users can click “Sign In” to create an account and access the course titled, “Doing Business with RTD.”

English: coloradobusinesslearning.auzmor.com

Spanish: educacionnegocioscolorado.auzmor.com

About RTD’s Small Business Opportunity Office

The SBO supports small, disadvantaged, minority-owned, and women-owned businesses seeking contracting opportunities with RTD. Through outreach, technical assistance, and strategic partnerships, SBO helps build a more inclusive transportation industry while supporting economic development across the Denver metro region.

For more information, visit: rtd-denver.com/doing-business-with-rtd/dbesbe

Contact: [email protected]

About the Colorado Minority Business Office

The MBO, part of the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade (OEDIT), works to expand economic opportunity for minority, women, and veteran entrepreneurs. The office connects businesses to resources, technical assistance, and partners across the state.

For more information, visit: oedit.colorado.gov/minority-business-office-of-colorado

Contact: [email protected]

Written by Lucas Bosley