MWIS / CDABP TRAININGS
Karyn Son, Supplier Diversity Manager at LADWP, opened the series with remarks about the LEAP project’ s purpose.“ Our goal at LADWP Supplier Diversity is to boost the participation of small businesses in our contracting opportunities [...] educating small businesses on what’ s available to them and how to navigate the process.”
The workshop introduced participants to the Los Angeles Regional CDABP. MWIS Client & Community Relations Manager Carlos Ray explained how the program can assist contractors in preparing for LEAP contract opportunities.“ We know that you are skilled at your job. Sometimes there are administrative tasks that you may need assistance with, and that is where the program can step in to help,” he explained.“ The CDABP offers comprehensive support to enrolled contractors.”
Participants also learned more about how to prepare for upcoming opportunities. They received instruction on registering with RAMP, LADWP’ s Electronic Request-Solicit- Purchase System( eRSP) vendor portal, as well as information about certification benefits, requirements, and best practices for securing project opportunities.
One of the highlights of the series was a presentation about LEAP from Sarah Viramontes, Julie Yin, and the LADWP Water Conservation Policy group.“ Our group focuses on developing programs and offerings for our customers to use water more efficiently. This project is something that we are looking forward to, allowing landscape transformation to be more accessible to some of our customers in the city,” noted Viramontes.
Launched in the latter part of 2025, LEAP provides eligible LADWP customers with free lawn removal and California-friendly landscaping for single-family homes. The program is funded through a Urban Community Drought Relief Grant from the California Department of Water Resources.
During the presentation, contractors received an overview of LEAP’ s customer service approach, project scope, important dates, requirements, and work package distribution plans. A key requirement for LEAP participation is obtaining the Water Efficient Landscape Certification offered by the Metropolitan Water District( MWD). This specialized certification is mandatory for all contractors receiving LEAP contract opportunities. Contractors had the opportunity to ask questions and gain deeper understanding of the program.
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