New York Construction Report staff writer
The Rochester Hispanic Business Association has launched a new pilot program aimed at helping established construction businesses expand their operations and compete for larger public and private sector projects across the Greater Rochester region.
The initiative, called Built to Scale, is designed for contractors that have already established their businesses but need additional resources to pursue larger contracts, strengthen internal operations and improve procurement readiness.
Association officials said the program fills a gap in the local business development landscape, where many organizations focus on helping entrepreneurs start businesses but offer fewer resources for companies seeking to scale.
“Small businesses are the backbone of our regional economy, but many established contractors face barriers when trying to access larger opportunities,” said Orlando Rivera, president of the Rochester Hispanic Business Association. “Built to Scale reflects RHBA’s commitment to helping local businesses grow, create jobs and strengthen our regional construction ecosystem.”
The cohort-based program will provide training, peer learning opportunities, industry networking and practical guidance on topics including bidding strategies, request-for-proposal processes, estimating, bonding and insurance requirements, compliance, and building operational systems needed to support growth.
Program Lead Mario Roque said many organizations throughout the region are seeking qualified contractors capable of delivering larger projects, but smaller firms often struggle to meet procurement requirements.
“Our goal is to help more local businesses become contract-ready by addressing the real-world challenges that often prevent smaller firms from competing for larger opportunities,” Roque said. “Stronger contractors ultimately benefit everyone by increasing competition, improving project outcomes and strengthening the regional economy.”
According to RHBA, organizations across Rochester and Buffalo collectively spend hundreds of millions of dollars each year on construction, maintenance and operations projects. However, many of those contracts are awarded to a relatively small pool of contractors, limiting competition and growth opportunities for emerging firms.
To help shape the program, RHBA is seeking input from general contractors, developers, government agencies, health care organizations, higher education institutions, corporate and nonprofit organizations, and procurement and facilities professionals. Survey responses will be used to identify contractor readiness gaps and opportunities to strengthen the regional construction marketplace.
Applications for the inaugural Built to Scale cohort will begin being screened in August. The association said the program is intended to prepare contractors to pursue larger projects and subcontracting opportunities while strengthening the region’s construction workforce and business community.
