How one local construction company empowers small and emerging businesses in Jacksonville

Featured in the Jacksonville Business Journal

Supporting Small and Emerging Businesses: A Commitment to Jacksonville’s Future 

In Jacksonville’s evolving landscape, providing opportunities to small and emerging local businesses in our community is not just an ideal; it’s a critical factor for sustained growth and success. Auld & White Constructors (AWC), a trusted leader in Jacksonville’s construction industry for over 37 years, has long championed supporting these businesses. Through AWC’s mission to “Build a Better Future for its People, Clients, and Community” and its strong sense of social responsibility, the organization is committed to supporting the community where it works, lives, and plays. AWC has historically engaged Jacksonville Small and Emerging Businesses (JSEB) contractors in its projects. This consistent commitment strengthens AWC projects, empowers local businesses, and enables more success in the community. 

The Value of Supporting Small Businesses in Construction  

Supporting small and emerging businesses in construction goes beyond fulfilling mandates or checking boxes; it’s about investing in the community. A diverse pool of subcontractors brings different perspectives, innovative ideas, and a variety of skill sets to the table. It provides opportunities and promotes economic empowerment within underrepresented small businesses. 

For AWC, prioritizing the involvement of small and emerging businesses is a principle that drives how an organization can contribute to the Northeast Florida community. By engaging the participation of local subcontractors, AWC ensures that it supports small and emerging businesses in growing, thriving, and contributing to the demands of our growing city. 

AWC’s Strategic Approach to JSEB Engagement 

AWC’s focus on providing opportunities for new businesses is not a recent development but a long-standing commitment. AWC formally launched a targeted outreach effort to refine and further expand its supplier diversity program in August 2021. This initiative was a strategic response to the evolving needs of the market and the growing importance of providing opportunities for local small and emerging businesses in Jacksonville’s construction industry. “At Auld & White Constructors, we see our collaboration with JSEBs as a vital part of building not just successful projects, but a more diverse and dynamic marketplace.” Cindy Reis, Project Development Manager – Public Sector, Auld & White Constructors. As part of this effort, AWC became an advisory member of the Jax Chamber Bridge2Business program and the Jacksonville Women’s Business Center. Each concentrates on supporting local businesses through small business development, entrepreneurship, and innovation. 

Through these partnerships, AWC has played a pivotal role in advising new business owners on effectively presenting themselves for contract opportunities. The company has also sponsored multiple vendor labs in collaboration with the Jax Chamber to assist subcontractors in completing the requirements for JSEB certification. By reaching out to small businesses on its Bid List and encouraging them to pursue JSEB certification, AWC has significantly expanded its database of qualified subcontractors. 

Making a Tangible Impact on Local Businesses 

The result of AWC’s commitment is a significant expansion of JSEB-certified businesses that are available to work on future projects. Effective strategic partnerships and outreach have led to the successful onboarding of more than 100 new qualified businesses into its JSEB database, significantly expanding the diverse pool of AWC subcontractors. 

AWC’s involvement continues beyond certification. The company actively participates in Small Business Engagement (SBE) lunches alongside other leaders from prominent Jacksonville organizations, including JEA, JTA, JaxPort, JAA, DCPS, Baptist Health, and Florida Blue. These meetings serve as an opportunity for collaboration and exchanging best practices for small business engagement. Additionally, by working closely with Jax Chamber Venture Services, AWC has helped shape new practices and initiatives that benefit the broader business community. 

Driving Downtown Jacksonville’s Development with JSEBs 

A recent example of AWC’s dedication to JSEB engagement is its role in developing projects for the Jacksonville Jaguars. As the construction manager for two of the Shipyards site projects, AWC has played a key role in ensuring that local businesses, particularly JSEBs, have an opportunity to be part of these high-profile developments.  

During a recent subcontractor event hosted by the Jacksonville Jaguars, AWC highlighted its strategy for engaging JSEBs on the Jacksonville Shipyards marina support building and the Jacksonville Jaguars office and fitness tenant improvement projects. This strategy aligns with the Jacksonville Jaguars and the City of Jacksonville’s desire for small businesses to be a part of transforming downtown. While soliciting bids, AWC is committed to ensuring JSEB participation plans are met for each project by providing ample time for proposal preparations and actively supporting JSEBs in the process.  

This inclusive approach resonates deeply with AWC’s mission and values. As a company rooted in Jacksonville, AWC understands the significance of supporting local businesses and ensuring that the benefits of downtown development extend to all members of the community. 

Ongoing Commitment to Small Business Engagement 

Looking ahead, AWC remains committed to advancing its equal opportunity initiatives and expanding bid opportunities for JSEB subcontractors. The company recognizes this is an ongoing process that requires continuous nurturing, engagement, and collaboration. 

As new construction opportunities emerge in Jacksonville, AWC is positioned to play a key role in ensuring that local businesses, including JSEBs, are integral to the city’s growth and transformation. By leveraging its expertise, partnerships, and commitment to small and emerging businesses, AWC will continue to contribute to a more vibrant and prosperous Jacksonville.