Building for Growth (BFG) is a national, online, 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).
BFG combines 18 weekly 2-hour virtual classes, dedicated technical assistance, and long-term mentorship. 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 Inner City 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.
To be eligible* for the BFG program, your company must be:
*Regional cohorts may have additional eligibility requirements.
**ICIC defines under-resourced communities as areas of concentrated poverty and low income within urban and suburban communities. Not sure if you’re located in an under-resourced community? Apply to find out.
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.
ICIC is the technical assistance provider for the construction sector in the City of Boston’s Supplying Capital and Leveraging Education (SCALE) initiative. The purpose of the SCALE program is to build businesses’ capacity to more effectively pursue government contracts. The construction sector includes plumbing & HVAC services; electrical work; general contracting services; roofing, siding, and flooring work; insulation, drywall, masonry, and weatherproofing work.
Boston-based construction companies are encouraged to apply for the opportunity. Selected participants will receive a grant of up to $200,000 and industry-specific technical assistance for three to six months. Eligibility requirements include:
Applications are open through Monday, December 2, 2024.
BFG offers national and regional cohorts limited to ~50 businesses each. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis until all seats are filled. We encourage you to apply early while openings remain.
Stay informed on upcoming cohorts, including application announcements, by emailing bfg@icic.org.
Know of any businesses that are a good fit for the BFG program? Nominate them to participate.
Have a question about Building for Growth? Contact us at bfg@icic.org or schedule an interest call here.
ICIC drives inclusive economic prosperity in under-resourced communities through innovative research and programs to create jobs, income, and wealth for local residents.
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