The Social Responsibility Division (SRD) contributes to the vitality of Oakland, surrounding communities, and the region through policies and programs that add value to the Port’s business development activities. SRD aims to facilitate inclusion, fairness, equity, as well as access to economic opportunities, programs, and services for local businesses and the community.

Small, locally-owned, minority-owned, and woman-owned businesses have a robust advocate in their corner. The SRD was created to ensure that small and diverse firms have a place at the table when large contracts are being awarded. Our careful and thorough certification process helps establish your credentials, and network you with potential contractors. We assist you throughout the bid process with expert bonding and financial advice.

SRD is the bridge that connects Port productivity and economic success to quality of life issues for all local residents. Providing our workforce with the skills it needs to step into good-paying jobs is equally important to both workers and employers. We facilitate a wide variety of local training and apprenticeship programs that reach out to new and unskilled workers. We collaborate with our unions to ensure successful recruitment deserving students. In short, we are there to support workers every step of the way as they enter or re-enter the work force.

We know hundreds of success stories that bear testimony to the transformational power of opportunity, and the host of positive impacts it sets in motion like home ownership, successful schools, reduced blight and decreased crime rates. We are fully committed to offering real hope for a brighter tomorrow for future generations.