Celebrating 62 Years of Small Business Week: A Legacy of Partnership and Progress with our Trade Partners
According to the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), small businesses comprise 99.9% of all U.S. companies and employ more than 46% of the national workforce. During this week of recognition, Hensel Phelps proudly honors small businesses and their contributions and reaffirms our support for their continued success.
National Small Business Week (NSBW), organized by the U.S. Small Business Administration, celebrates the vital role of small businesses in the U.S. economy. Since 1953, the SBA has supported entrepreneurs through resources, events and recognition programs. Learn more at sba.gov.
At Hensel Phelps, our roots run deep in this space. We began as a small business, and that journey shaped our identity and core values. Today, we remain committed to fostering growth and creating opportunities for the next generation of small businesses.
A Vision for Supplier Diversity
Over two decades ago, Walter Jones laid the foundation for our Supplier Diversity team, a visionary move that set the standard for collaboration between Hensel Phelps and small businesses. Since its inception in 2002, the team has expanded from a one-person operation to a 10-member unit working across multiple regions. Their mission is to support small businesses face-to-face and empower them to grow alongside us.
This commitment has resulted in over $1 billion in subcontracts awarded to small businesses—an achievement that reflects investment and partnership.
Investing in Resources and Relationships
Our work with small businesses extends far beyond contracts. We provide resources and guidance to help these firms navigate the complexities of the construction industry, from preconstruction planning to project execution. We also help small contractors for success through tailored mentorship, outreach and partnership. We understand roadblocks because we have been there and are dedicated to helping them overcome those challenges. We know the roadblocks they face because we have been there and are dedicated to helping them overcome those challenges. With a variety of partners, Hensel Phelps has numerous trade partner outreach programs, including the Technical Assistance Program (TAP), Bonding Assistance Program, and Emerging Trade Partners Program. Subcontractor & Small Business Outreach | Hensel Phelps
Award-Winning Commitment to Excellence
We are honored to be recognized for our long-standing dedication to small businesses. Hensel Phelps is a four-time recipient of the U.S. Small Business Administration’s Dwight D. Eisenhower Award for Excellence, winning every time we have qualified (2010, 2014, 2018, 2022). This prestigious award recognizes large prime contractors who go above and beyond in engaging small businesses as suppliers and subcontractors.
Leadership in Action
Brad Lewis, our Corporate Director of Supplier Diversity, plays a central role in this effort. He works with regional leadership to ensure we meet client subcontracting goals and actively cultivate meaningful, lasting relationships with small businesses. His team helps drive regional and national outreach, customizing strategies that align with the unique needs of each community we serve.
Building Stronger Communities Together
As a leading general contractor, Hensel Phelps continues to set the standard for excellence. We do not just work with small businesses; we uplift them. From hosting outreach events to connecting firms with procurement opportunities, we build business partnerships where everyone can thrive. To learn more about our Trade Partner outreach programs, click here.