Connecticut Good Faith Efforts requirements, explained

Who has to file a GFE plan?

Any contractor awarded a public works contract with $150,000 or more in state funding — whether the awarding authority is a state agency, quasi-public agency, municipality, or grantee of state funding. This threshold took effect October 1, 2025, replacing the old Set-Aside and Affirmative Action plan regime.

Short Form vs Long Form

• Short Form GFE Plan — state funding between $150,000 and $1,000,000.
• Long Form GFE Plan — state funding of $1,000,000 or more, or any Construction Manager on a project with more than $150,000 in state funding.

Both forms are accompanied by a Bid Tabulation Worksheet documenting every quote received and the reason any SBE/MBE bidder was not selected. Not sure which applies? Use the free form picker.

Spending Allocation Goals

Since July 1, 2026, awarding authorities set project-specific goals for SBE and MBE participation (previously statewide defaults of 25% SBE / 6.25% MBE). The goals appear in the bid notification — your GFE plan documents how you tried to meet them.

What counts as evidence?

CHRO's guidance is evidence-centric: written solicitations preserved, phone outreach documented in written notes, responses and follow-ups logged, and non-selection reasons recorded. Records must be kept for at least two years after the project file closes, and CHRO can audit during or after the project.

Closeout

Within 45 days of substantial completion, contractors submit subcontractor payment documentation, lien waivers, and any outstanding subcontract notifications. General contractors must pay subs within 15 days of the due date absent a bona fide dispute.

What happens if you don't comply?

Withheld contract payments, disqualification from future bidding, and civil penalties or legal action by CHRO.