ABC and the U.S. Veterans Business Alliance (USVBA) recently signed a memorandum of understanding to collaborate on expanding the participation of veteran and disabled veteran businesses in the merit shop construction industry. 

“ABC members are committed to achieving a fully inclusive and culturally competent workforce that is welcoming to all people, where employees and suppliers are limited only by their own potential,” said Michael D. Bellaman, ABC president and CEO. “Qualified veteran and disabled veteran subcontractor and suppliers provide value to building and construction projects and to the economy as a whole, and we support USVBA’s mission to help them succeed.” 

“USVBA and ABC find mutual purpose in promoting an environment in which fair and open competition enhances veteran and disabled veteran business participation,” said Mike Wray, a USVBA national board member. “Veterans’ experience in the military prepares them to be smart, capable entrepreneurs, striving to achieve the highest levels of personal and company performance.” 

The two organizations agree to: 

·       Share information about business opportunities;

·       Help ABC members identify and connect with qualified potential veteran and disabled veteran subcontractors and suppliers;

·       Participate in outreach events sponsored by each organization to promote business opportunities for veteran and disabled veteran businesses;

·       Encourage ABC members to become formal sponsors of the USVBA; and

·       Support expansion of the market for building and construction by cooperating wherever possible. 

The agreement was signed on March 20 during ABC Convention 2018 in Long Beach, Calif. 

U.S. Veterans Business Alliance (USVBA) is a vibrant organization that empowers, provides resources to, and works side-by-side with veterans to promote and support them in establishing, maintaining and growing viable business enterprises. The Alliance has helped thousands achieve financial rehabilitation through entrepreneurship. We help disabled veterans achieve the satisfaction, pride and independence that comes from running their own business. Visit us at gousvba.org. 

Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) is a national construction industry trade association established in 1950 that represents more than 21,000 members. Founded on the merit shop philosophy, ABC and its 70 chapters help members develop people, win work and deliver that work safely, ethically and profitably for the betterment of the communities in which ABC and its members work. Visit us at abc.org.