WASHINGTON — Clark Construction Group announced in May more than $850 million in construction contract awards to small and diverse-owned firms through its dedicated SDBE15 programming.
Launched in 2021, this voluntary small business inclusion initiative applies to every Clark project that does not otherwise have a small business participation goal, targeting a minimum participation target of 15% from small, disadvantaged-, minority-, and women-owned firms.
According to Clark, the SDBE15 program has helped to expand and strengthen Clark’s contractor network and foster long-term relationships with a range of diverse business partners, while enhancing the company’s ability to deliver for clients across the country.
Originally projected to generate approximately $250 million in new contract opportunities annually, SDBE15 has resulted in almost $300 million in contract awards each year to small and diverse businesses since its inception. The measure includes subcontracts awarded at all tiers with the goal of creating opportunities for the greatest number of firms possible, a news release from the company said.
“We are helping realize maximum benefit for the small business community in terms of job creation, business growth, and incubation through Clark’s voluntary commitments,” noted Jay Grauberger, executive vice president of corporate affairs. “Our goal is to help unlock the potential that innovative small and diverse businesses bring to their work, and ultimately, to Clark projects.”
The SDBE15 program is a component of Clark’s holistic approach to developing and mentoring small and diverse-owned business enterprises. Established nearly 18 years ago, Clark’s Strategic Partnership Program (SPP) provides an intensive executive MBA-style development course targeted to small business leaders at no cost.
Clark says more than 1,500 entrepreneurs nationwide have completed SPP and, later this year, the capacity-building program will launch in its 10th major market– San Diego. Bringing together small business leaders with Clark executives, prime businesses, and local certifying agencies, Clark’s Small and Diverse Business Expo (SDBX) pairs networking and education in a conference format.
First offered in Washington, DC in 2022, more than 500 firms have taken part in SDBX events in Houston, Nashville, and Baltimore.
Source: Clark Construction
