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Program Update

ICIC launched Building for Growth (BFG) in 2022 with the goal of addressing the historic underrepresentation of BIPOC-, woman-, and veteran-owned businesses in the construction industry by providing them with the tools, education, and mentorship to grow and scale their businesses. Offered tuition-free to participants, BFG is a national, virtual executive education program uniquely designed to help construction contractors access capital, increase bonding capacity, and secure contracts.

The program’s robust curriculum combines 18 weekly classes, dedicated technical assistance, and long-term mentorship. BFG is taught by construction industry practitioners and experts and comprehensively covers all the key elements needed to be a successful construction firm, including construction law, contract negotiation, and estimating.

Building for Growth was inspired by ICIC alumna and board member Jennifer Pinck. Jennifer was a trailblazer in the construction industry, laying a path for women to enter and excel in the trade. Her experiences helped inform the development of BFG, which helps scale BIPOC-, woman-, and veteran-owned construction businesses nationwide.

“I chose to participate in ICIC’s programs because they were making an investment in the area where I live in East Portland. My company’s mission is to provide employment opportunities, which was common ground with ICIC’s investment to help companies grow and scale.

What I like most about the BFG program is that it helps to expand your network. I get that peer-to-peer opportunity for general feedback, finding a partner for a project, and more. Plus the various panels, coaches, and speakers that BFG provided for us opened doors for contracting opportunities. That helps to fill our pipeline and our revenue stream. It’s so multifaceted to be a participant of BFG because it provides you with many types of opportunities.”

Sharon Maxwell, CEO

Bratton Construction
Portland, Oregon
Building for Growth (2023)

“Building for Growth stands out as an exceptionally comprehensive and inclusive business development program. It excelled in delivering relevant topics taught by knowledgeable and engaging experts. The requirement to research and refine a business plan was a key component that truly set the program apart.

Thanks to BFG’s training, I have achieved many significant milestones, including securing my second prime contract, my second multiyear contract, and managing more than three contracts simultaneously. I also secured a multiyear contract with the city and county of San Francisco. Additionally, BFG has personally empowered me to be a confident business owner and to negotiate with other owners and executives in the industry.

While business often lacks emotion, BFG has introduced a valuable infusion of kindness and respect, especially toward women and people of color. This program has redefined success through the lenses of equity and equality.”

La Sonia Mansfield, President & CEO

Mansfield and Mansfield
San Francisco, California
Building for Growth (2023)

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