For the Reporter
The U.S. Small Business Administration’s Washington Graduate Small Business of the Year is Allen-Bradbury Construction (ABC).
Founded in 1997, ABC is a Native American-owned “start-to-finish” commercial construction firm that graduated from the SBA Business Development Program in May 2010.
The SBA 8(a) Business Development Program helps small, disadvantaged businesses compete in the marketplace, primarily by qualifying for sole-source federal government contracts. Participation in the program spans nine years and is aimed at developing small businesses and helping them become stronger and more competitive within the greater marketplace.
“The SBA 8(a) program is a long-term commitment we make to disadvantaged small businesses with nearly 10 8(a) firms graduating from our district every year,” said Nancy Porzio, SBA Seattle district director. “To see Allen-Bradbury Construction graduate and continue to receive such high accolades from their clients and community members demonstrates the integrity and leadership of the firm within our small business community.”
Managing Partner Allen Engberg started the company in his home and grew the business to a $12.4 million operation in less than 15 years. The firm boasts federal clients including the General Services Administration (GSA), the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the Federal Aviation Administration, McChord Air Force Base and the U.S. Navy.
ABC has also built projects for seven different Indian Tribes in Western Washington along with signature projects for Wild Waves Theme Park in Federal Way, the Jackson Federal Building in downtown Seattle, Commencement Bank in Tacoma, the Point Defiance Zoo and Aquarium, and the King County Library System.
In addition to several recognitions for its work, ABC also has received honors for its philanthropic work with several charities and organizations along with creating its own scholarship fund for Samish tribal members.
“Our company believes that honesty and accountability are traits all contractors should live by. We also believe all corporations, large and small, should give back to the communities in which they do business,” Engberg said. “I firmly believe the continuing education of tribal members strengthens the tribe as a whole. It is my sincere hope to help create a good future for individuals, their families, and our nation.”
The SBA 2014 Washington 8(a) Graduate Small Business of the Year will be recognized at a local awards ceremony event Friday in conjunction with National Small Business Week (May 12-16).
“At the SBA, we focus on what we refer to as the three C’s – counseling, capital and contracting,” said SBA Regional Administrator Calvin Goings. “The 8(a) program is the cornerstone of our contracting arm. I’m proud to see graduates like Allen-Bradbury Construction applying what they gleaned from the program and continuing to be a successful leader in their field.”
