Houston is known for being a city with many business opportunities for large corporations but for some small businesses in the area, it can be a lot tougher to advance and develop. In many instances, small businesses are not equipped with the proper tools and resources to take their company to the next level.
The Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County, Texas (METRO) has long been at the forefront of fostering economic growth and development within the metropolitan area and the state. One of its most impactful initiatives, the Interagency Mentor Protégé Program (IMPP), is a testament to the agency’s commitment to empowering small and minority businesses. This program, particularly tailored for subcontractors, has become a cornerstone for business development and community empowerment.
The goals of the program are to enhance business skills and broaden the base of historically small and minority businesses by providing the knowledge and experience of established firms. With the guidance of several local agencies in addition to METRO, such as the City of Houston, Houston Independent School District, Port Houston, Houston Community College, Harris Health Systems and Harris County, small businesses have the much-needed resources and tools to take their companies to another level after completing the 2024 Interagency Mentor Protégé Program.
By the end of the program, small businesses (protégés) have garnered effective working relationships and created long-term stability between their companies and local agencies by being paired with established firms (mentors).
The benefits of participating in IMPP include but are not limited to:
- Understanding your business financials and bidding
- Creating and strengthening working relationships between established and emerging companies
- Understanding how to do business with local government agencies
- Protégés receiving technical assistance in specific areas
Program Requirements:
Someone seeking to be a part of IMPP must:
- Currently be certified with current registration as a small, women-owned, veteran-owned, minority-owned, or disadvantaged business enterprise with any or all of the partnering agencies: City of Houston, METRO, Port Houston, HISD, HCC, Harris Health System or Harris County
- Be a business in continuous operation for at least the last 24 months
- Have an annual business revenue average between $150,000 and $4 million in the past three years
- Be a business with a minimum of four employees
- Be able to commit to nine workshops
- Be able to identify the type of guidance needed for development
- Note: You may be asked to submit documents to verify or add to information on your application. Failure to submit verifying documents could result in the disqualification of your application.
The partnership between METRO, the City of Houston, HISD, Port Houston, Houston Community College, Harris Health System and Harris County serves a significant purpose and is fundamental for the growth of small businesses across the city. The partnership exemplifies a unified commitment to fostering economic growth and development, and leverages the unique strengths and resources of each entity, creating a comprehensive support network for small and disadvantaged businesses. By sharing their expertise, these organizations provide a multifaceted approach to mentorship, encompassing areas such as technical training, business development, and networking opportunities. This interagency alliance amplifies the program’s reach and impact and reinforces a collective effort to build a more inclusive and resilient economic landscape in the Houston region.
2024 Interagency Mentor Protégé Program
• Received 229 applications
• Accepted 21 protégés into program
• Graduated 21 protégés from program
2024 Protégés’ Industries
Industries No. of Firms
Construction 5
Engineering 3
General Services 3
Professional Services 8
Supplies & Equipment 2
2024 Workshop Presenters
- Joi Beasley, Gogo Business Communications
- Latoshia Norwood, L’Renee & Associates, LLC
- Ervin Hughes, Level 3 Business Consulting
- Julie Irvin & Susan Repka, B2G Victory
2024 Protégés
| Bluebery Hawaii Technology Solutions LLC |
| Butler Business Products LLC |
| Casanova Signs Co. Inc. |
| Impact Stone Design Inc. |
| IS2 LLC |
| Kaenod LLC dba Kaenod Trucking |
| Kenall Geo LLC |
| Maylan Staffing LLC |
| Modern Med Health Solutions LLC |
| MV Engineering |
| Novo Communications LLC |
| PWR Holdings Corp dba Fastest Labs Central Houston |
| Salem Valuation Solutions |
| Simmons-Johnson Consulting LLC |
| Smarter HR Solutions LLC |
| SP Engineering Inc. |
| TanChes Global Management Inc. |
| TCI Control USA LLC dba dEnergy |
| UMD Energy Solutions |
| White Glove Group Inc. |
| YS Best Home Builders LLC |
2024 Mentors
| ARVO Realty Advisors |
| Austin Business Strategies |
| Bowman Engineering and Consulting |
| Freese & Nichols Gilbreath Level3 Corporation |
| Manhattan Construction MBN Enterprises LLC |
| McCarthy Building Companies Inc. |
| MSC |
| Parsons |
| PBK |
| Reytec |
| Sterling Staffing Solutions |
| TD Industries |
| Tellepsen |
2024 IMPP Partners
- Metropolitan Transit Authority (METRO)
- City of Houston
- Harris County Department of Economic Equity and Opportunity
- Harris Health
- Houston Community College (HCC)
- Houston Independent School District (HISD)
- Houston Public Works
- Port Houston
The Interagency Mentor Protégé Program stands as a beacon of hope and opportunity for small and minority-owned businesses in the Houston area. As METRO continues to innovate and expand this initiative, along with the other agency partners, the future looks promising for many more subcontractors seeking to make their mark in the industry. Through programs like these, METRO exemplifies the power of strategic mentorship and collaboration in driving business success and community prosperity.
“In FY2023, METRO paid $87 million to small and disadvantaged businesses that participated in our active contracts. In the near future, our goal and hope are to see some of our protégés from this FY2024 graduating class land some of METRO’s contracts and/or small purchases,” says Shurronda Murray, Manager of Outreach and Business Development with METRO.
For more on the Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County, visit www.ridemetro.org.
IMPP Testimonials
“Participating in the IMPP program has been a transformative experience for our business. The workshops, particularly on bidding strategies, have significantly enhanced our understanding of determining a target price that maximizes our chances of winning projects. This reverse engineering approach was a game changer for us and has made a noticeable difference in our bidding process.
“Beyond the technical knowledge, the program has also been instrumental in expanding our network. I had the privilege of meeting three remarkable small business owners, and our collaboration on the final project presentation has laid the foundation for long-lasting business relationships.
“Through IMPP, we’ve opened doors to new opportunities with our mentor and other participant companies, bolstered our confidence in pursuing government contracts, and gained a much clearer path for our future development. The insights and connections we’ve gained are invaluable, filling us with excitement for the future. I’m eager to continue leveraging them as we grow.” – Jose M. Orrego of IS2, LLC.
“Simmons-Johnson Consulting has participated in a number of small business programs in the last 7 years. We believe that completion of the IMPP will significantly increase our footprint in the local contracting arena and contribute to our continual success. This program could be a gamechanger for any small business.” – Stephane S. Johnson, CPA of Simmons-Johnson Consulting LLC
“IMPP FY2024 has been a valuable experience, offering access to crucial application insights, connecting us with industry experts for bid preparations, and fostering meaningful networking with the agencies and participants.” – Annabell Vidal of TCI Control USA LLC dba dEnergy
“Simmons-Johnson Consulting has been actively involved in various small business programs over the past seven years. These experiences have helped the company build a solid foundation and grow its presence within the industry. Through these initiatives, Simmons-Johnson has gained valuable insights and developed the expertise necessary to navigate the challenges faced by small businesses.
“We believe that completing the IMPP (Interagency Mentor-Protégé Program) will be a crucial step forward in enhancing its footprint in the local contracting market. The program is designed to provide minority-owned small businesses with the tools, resources, and opportunities needed to thrive in competitive environments. By participating in IMPP, Simmons-Johnson aims to strengthen its position and secure more contracts, furthering its growth and success.
“Overall, Simmons-Johnson Consulting sees the IMPP as a potential game-changer for the company. The program aligns with the company’s long-term goals and could significantly contribute to its continued success. By leveraging the benefits of IMPP, Simmons-Johnson hopes to expand its reach, increase its market share, and establish itself as a leading player in the local contracting arena. This program could be a gamechanger for any small business.” – Stephane S. Johnson, CPA of Simmons-Johnson Consulting LLC
“I was honored when I received the news that I had been accepted into the IMPP program. I was unsure of what to expect, but I was very eager to learn from the agencies, mentors, and scheduled speakers. I must admit that I was a bit intimidated by the wealth of experience and knowledge in my cohort, but I soon learned that all of us had knowledge to gain, some to share, and most of all, we all had a passion for the resilience and growth of our business.
“Being an introvert at heart, I wondered how I would connect with the mentors and the guest speakers to garner the most from this experience. From our first session, each Agency represented in the program was welcoming, inclusive, and informative, and I met people who were on their journey to learning how to best partner with the agencies represented in the IMPP. The agency leaders were knowledgeable about their agencies, knew the other agencies’ needs, and could direct us appropriately. The speakers were fantastic and truly cared about the success of our companies, which was highlighted by the time they spent sharing their expertise, answering our questions, and offering their contact information to the entire group.
“Mr. Ervin Hughes, CEO of Level 3 Corporation, went above and beyond expectations. He provided our cohort with handouts and formulas to help us understand how to price our goods and services and connect with our finances to excel in profitability. Mr. Hughes also offered his support during and after the IMPP by providing a complimentary financial service to our cohort.
“Julie Hartman, co-founder of B2G Victory, helped us understand the response process so we could best position ourselves for success and increase our odds of winning contracts. Her lessons and tips were invaluable. Ms. Hartman also gave our cohort access to the B2G portal to enhance our company’s marketability and response development.
“La Toshia Norward, CEO of L’ Renee & Associates, offered great information on solidifying our business’ target market and shared some excellent reading material to strengthen our competency in marketing our service and products. She remained at the virtual meeting during the breaks and after the scheduled time to answer questions. She showed great dedication to helping us succeed.
“Every agency and presenter involved in the IMPP program not only listened to us and offered guidance but also provided practical advice that was immediately applicable. The insights I gained from our conversations were invaluable, and the advice I received was not just theoretical, but actionable.
“Perhaps the most significant aspect of the IMPP for me was the confidence it instilled in me as I endeavor to grow my business. Working with my team, ‘ETA,’ on our RFI presentation (did I mention we won 1st place) encouraged me to develop a service I want to add to my service offerings at Smarter HR Solutions, LLC. Our team worked so well together and supported each other. I think we all received a confidence boost and began a lasting relationship. Being a small business owner going through the aftermath of the pandemic, I almost forgot what it’s like to partner with others cross-functionally. I probably would not have had this type of experience had I not participated in this year’s IMPP. I plan to use what I learned, partner with those I met, leverage the relationship I will build with my mentor, and feel grateful that I have the agencies and the SMEs they connected us with to help champion growth and success!” – Nicole Bellow, CEO of Smarter HR Solutions, LLC.
