NOPB strongly encourages the acquisition of goods and services from and direct participation of eligible business entities (EBEs) as defined in the NOPBs Small Business Opportunity Program. The Program is a race- and gender-neutral program intended to provide additional contracting and p r o c u r e m e n t opportunities for certified eligible businesses by encouraging contractors who receive state contracts to use good-faith efforts to utilize such certified entities in the performance of those contracts. NOPB desires to achieve, to the greatest extent possible, commercially meaningful and useful participation by EBEs. By providing equitable opportunities for EBEs, NOPB derives multiple benefits, including contributing to the economic vitality of our communities and ensuring a broader selection of competitively priced goods and services Bidders should present a responsible plan that provides for participation of qualified EBEs. Bidders should clearly state EBE participation goals and their plan for implementation of the same in their bid. Bidders should also include information relative to the participation levels Bidder has managed on other prior projects. Participation shall be counted toward meeting the contract goals only by business entities certified designated in the Program. The direct participation goal can be achieved through direct ownership, joint venture participation, owner/operator agreements, or sublease agreements for operations. Participation shall include work opportunities in planning, development, construction, and operation of the Project. For Any Questions Relating To The Electronic Bidding Process, Please Call At 225-810- 4814. The Bidder Must Attach A Completed And Signed Digital Copy Of The Bid Form, Proof Of Authority And Any Other Documents Required In The Bidding Documents. The Nopb Shall Not Be Responsible If A Bidder Cannot Complete Or Submit An Electronic Bid. Bidders Shall Be Responsible For Receiving Confirmation That The Bid Was Successfully Delivered Prior To The Bid Submission Deadline. NOPB accepts the following certifications: (1) the SLDBE program run by the City of New Orleans, (2) the state of Louisianas Department of Economic Developments SBE Hudson Initiative program, (3) The Louisiana Unified certification Program, or (4) the Federal Small business Enterprise Program. Bids shall include evidence of a current certification