About Building for Growth

Building for Growth (BFG) is a tuition-free executive education program that helps primarily BIPOC-, woman-, and veteran-owned construction contractors build capacity and develop sustainable growth strategies. The BFG program launched its inaugural cohort in 2022, and since then has served 166 construction firms from 29 states.

The BFG program is led by Steve Lamar, Founder and CEO of Forward Planning & Solutions, who brings 20+ years of experience in supplier diversity, construction, and diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI).

The New Jersey Economic Development Authority is partnering with ICIC to bring BFG to New Jersey construction contractors, with classes starting January 2025. The program is hybrid, offering both in-person classes hosted at Kean University and virtual classes via Zoom.

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What Makes Building for Growth Unique?

• Peer-to-peer connections: join a vibrant cohort of diverse contractors to expand and enhance your peer network
• Led by practitioners: classes taught by construction industry practitioners and experts in their respective fields
• Access to resources: broad exposure to industry partners, including financial and bonding institutions, municipalities, and large prime contractors
• Business planning: create or improve a customized business plan designed to fuel growth, with feedback and support from the BFG staff

BFG Curriculum

BFG combines 18 weekly 2-hour classes, dedicated technical assistance, and long-term mentorship. This cohort meets every Wednesday from 6:00-8:00 p.m. The time commitment is about 3-4 hours per week. The program comprehensively covers all key elements needed to be a successful construction firm.

For more detailed information about the BFG classes, please read our Full Curriculum.

Upon completion of the program, participants will become part of ICIC’s Alumni Network (ICAN), which empowers and serves ICIC’s 8,000+ alumni by providing ongoing learning and professional development, visibility and recognition, and a network through which they may explore collaboration and contracting opportunities.

Eligibility

To be eligible for the BFG program in New Jersey, your company must be:

• An independent, for-profit corporation in the construction industry
• Headquartered in New Jersey, or perform a significant percentage of contracts in New Jersey
• At least 51% BIPOC- and/or woman-owned and/or veteran-owned and/or located in an over-burdened community*
• Have annual revenues of $1MM-$10MM and/or be on course to reach or exceed $2MM within the next 3 years

* “Overburdened community” means any census block group in which: (1) at least 35 percent of the households qualify as low-income households; (2) at least 40 percent of the residents identify as a minority or as members of a State recognized tribal community; or (3) at least 40 percent of the households have limited English proficiency.

Not sure if you’re located in an overburdened community? Apply to find out.

Nominate & Apply

BFG’s cohorts are limited to ~60 businesses each, and applications will be accepted on a rolling basis until all seats are filled. We encourage you to apply early while openings remain.

Know of any businesses that are a good fit for the BFG program in New Jersey or across the nation? Nominate them to participate.

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Contact us

Have a question about Building for Growth? Contact us at bfg@icic.org or schedule an interest call here.

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