The Build With Us @ Suffolk business accelerator program recently held a graduation ceremony for the 12 participants in an eight-course program. Three of the 12 were from Miami/South Florida-owned businesses. Over 200 small businesses from across the country have graduated from this program.
Suffolk, known for building some of the area’s most significant projects, is committed to developing solutions for small businesses in its local communities. They launched Build With Us @ Suffolk to provide a practical opportunity for M/W/VBE and SBA-certified firms, particularly minority, women, and veteran-owned small enterprises, to enhance their capacity.
Historically, large construction projects have underrepresented minority and women-owned business enterprises (MWBE) as subcontractors, which has significantly impacted the opportunity to employ people and businesses in communities. This situation also hinders the ability to address economic inequality for women and communities of color.
The eight-course curriculum offered by Build With Us @ Suffolk provides M/W/VBE and SBA-certified firms with an opportunity to expand their businesses, establish valuable relationships, and leave their unique mark on the construction industry. The curriculum covers several topics, such as risk management, project management, technology, preconstruction, business development, estimating/purchasing, and access to capital.
The graduates will be matched with a mentor from Suffolk Construction. These mentors will continue to meet with them monthly, providing guidance and support as they form partnerships within the local industry.
