Rockford respects and values the characteristics, talents, and perspectives that make us unique. We believe that by bringing diverse individuals together, we can effectively collaborate, innovate, and solve problems. Creating and fostering a team, partners, and strategies that reflect this purpose has translated to mentoring many trade contractors over the years, working alongside them to deliver places of beauty, value, and soul.
As we explored ways to make more lasting commitments to the community, we launched a new program to support a local, diverse, and entrepreneurial group of trades in West Michigan. Dimensions provides support to minority-, women-, disability- and veteran-owned commercial trade contractors by offering exposure to the tools and processes necessary to build their businesses while working toward long-term stability by providing opportunities to bid and perform on local projects.
Dimensions by the numbers
13 companies participated in the inaugural class
$275,475 was awarded to Dimensions participants in 2017
8 graduates were awarded projects in 2017 as a result of the program
5 graduates had too much work to bid on new projects in 2017
Rockford recently hosted a one-year Dimensions follow-up meeting and project open house. The event was a combination of education, business development, and networking opportunities. Representatives from the City of Grand Rapids, Aurikk Brand Movement Group, Grand Rapids Chamber of Commerce, and Rockford covered topics ranging from micro business certification benefits to the importance of branding, West Michigan Minority Contractors Association services, and understanding estimating as a small business.
Participants reflected on how the relationships built in Dimensions helped access an entire network of people, opportunities, and funding options. As the program concludes, we continue to invite former participants to monthly meetings to learn about upcoming projects and prepare for bidding opportunities.
