What is the Construction Partnering Program?
The Association of Women Contractors (AWC) works in contract for the City of St. Paul on the program to foster the connection between CERT Certified construction firms and majority construction firms.
Participation in the Construction Partnering Program (CPP) will promote the economic development of the Small Business Enterprise (SBE) through strengthening their capabilities and profitability. Partnerships will be developed and sustained through mentoring, networking, support groups, technical assistance, education and training.
Eligibility for Participation
General Contractor or Majority Owned Specialty Contractors are welcome to participate in this program to provide intentional mentorship to their partner.
The small business must be certified as an SBE or ESBE in Central CERT. They must maintain their status as an SBE for the duration of the partnership. Accepted Certifications include:
- Central Cert Program SBE
- ESBE
Why Be a Part Of CPP?
How Does CPP Work?
Key Benefits to CPP Partners
The purpose of the Partnership Plan is to establish detailed plans and objectives for meeting the developmental needs of the SBE and achieving the goals of the partnerships. The key elements of the plan may include the following:
- STRATEGIC PLANNING
- FINANCIAL GROWTH GOALS
- OPERATIONAL WORKFLOW AND CAPABILITY IMPROVEMENTS
- ESTIMATING AND BIDDING PRACTICES
- SAFETY SYSTEMS
- TECHNOLOGY USE AND ENHANCEMENTS
- PROJECT EXPERIENCE GOALS
- MARKET EXPANSION
- MARKETING AND SELLING STRATEGIES
- FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES
- EQUIPMENT EXPANSION
- HUMAN RESOURCE MANAGEMENT
- ACCESS TO INDUSTRY DATA
Partnership Formation
Interested SBE’s will be expected to initiate a partnership relationship with a majority subcontractor or prime contractor. Typically, the CPP partnering relationships develop from an existing relationship between the SBE and the majority contractor. Consideration for participation in the CPP will begin with the completion and submittal of the general interest form. Program participants will be selected and approved by the CPP administrator based on eligibility and alignment of the partnership with program goals.
Partnership Formation
Memorandum of Understanding
A representative of the SBE firm and majority contracting firm will sign a memorandum of understanding (MOU) indicating their commitment to the partnership. The purpose of the MOU is to clearly define the expectations of both parties throughout the duration of the partnership. The MOU includes a confidentiality clause. All parties signing the MOU agree to hold all information provided by participating companies in confidence in accordance with the agreement.
CPP PROGRAM GOALS
Provide access to projects and contract opportunities for SBE firms
Develop ongoing, mutually beneficial partnerships between SBEs and established firms in the construction industry
Current Partnerships
TESTIMONIALS
CPP Meetings
Quarterly Progress Meetings
The SBE and their partner will be expected to attend quarterly progress meetings with the CPP program administrator. The meeting will focus on progress review, planning next steps and evaluating contracting opportunities for the partnership. The program administrator will assist in the resolution of any problems or issues that may surface in the partnering relationship.
Quarterly Progress Meetings
The SBE member will be expected to attend regular CPP program meetings – held 7 times per year. The program administrator will track progress and challenges with regard to the partnership plan and goals. The program administrator will support the SBE member in problem-solving, identifying resources and strategies to leverage the partnership.
AWC’s Role & Partnership Plan
Match established firms with developing SBE businesses and help develop the partnering relationship and MOU goals.
