Be a part of AGCW as a small and diverse business

One of the most important aspects of our work is to increase the number of small and diverse firms that have access to our membership. AGC of Washington is serious about removing barriers to membership and changing the perception that we’re only dedicated to larger or more established contractors.

To that end, we have been working over the past year, and well before that, to give these businesses a chance to increase their capabilities to win more contracts in our communities. Here are some of the ways that we’ve been doing just that.

Changing up the rate
In 2021, we provided a new multi-year introductory membership rate so that minority and small businesses could access our benefits at a reduced rate. This is part of a partnership with the Minority Business Development Agency. As part of this rate, qualifying businesses can pay at the introductory rate for the five years that they belong to AGCW.

Making connections
Our website features best practices that give real-world advice for increased business. We also encourage more connections with general contractors through our resources section for small businesses, which includes profiles of some of those small/certified businesses.

Subcommittees on the move
There are four different subcommittees that are ideal for small business participation. The Dispute/Resolution Process and Prompt/Early-Payment Committee; the Set-Asides/Unbundling and Capacity-Building Mentorship; the Retainage, Bonding and Insurance Committee and the Prequalification, Non-Discrimination Plans and Inclusion Managers Committee all work to increase participation from smaller businesses on WSDOT state-funded projects.

Access for certified firms
The Seattle District has consistently offered spots on the membership meeting agenda for certified firms to introduce themselves and give more information on what they are able to do in the contracting realm. We’ll continue to highlight these firms to promote and network with their leaders, giving them more exposure in the industry. It’s a simple, but potentially profound way, to bring more business to these important members of our organization.

Bringing opportunities closer to you

Access to our members is just one of the benefits of being part of AGC of Washington. From health and retirement plans to lobbying for you and helping to build your firm’s connection network, as the state’s largest and oldest commercial-construction trade association, we are able to put the concerns and needs of the industry at the forefront.

You can learn about the many benefits we offer our members on our comprehensive website.