​​​​​​​​​​​​Are you one of our certified firms that are currently participating in the County's procurement process? We want to hear from you! Share your story​ with us and let's continue to inspire each other to thrive and succeed.  Learn more below about the Certified Business Enterprises (CBEs) working on the BCCC Expansion Project.

Hurricane Resistant Construction

Carol Gordon, President

Pivoting to Meet the Demand

Carol Gordon saw the need for hurricane shutters after the devastation of Hurricane Andrew in South Florida in 1992. Her brilliant idea to install hurricane shutters in South Florida became Hurricane Resistant Construction in 1993. After receiving a tip from a general contractor about the benefits of County certification with Broward County, Hurricane Resistant Construction got certified with Broward County and has been a CBE (County Business Enterprise) since the program's inception. Pivoting to meet additional construction market demands, Hurricane Resistant Construction now provides commercial door installations, and has worked with the Broward County Public Schools, Broward County Courthouse, and the Greater Fort Lauderdale | Broward County Convention Center expansion project.

Carol attributes her company's sustainability to having great employees who are willing to learn as times change. She has a staff of 9 employees who remain committed to learning new technologies in an ever- changing construction landscape.

Carol offers the following tips for small businesses:

1. Stash your cash-have as much cash on hand as you can.
2. Get good people and pay them well.
3. Do what you can to get an advantage, (Hint: Get Certified). ​​
   
   

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Eco Rentals

Valentina Martin, CEO 

Starting A Business From The Ground Up

Valentina Martin grew up in Argentina helping her father with his mining business. Overseeing employees and operations, Valentina was able to gain priceless knowledge about the equipment needed for mining and the construction industry. In 2019, she followed her father's entrepreneurial spirit and started her own company Eco Rentals providing construction equipment.

The pandemic hit shortly after starting her business. Valentina pivoted to reinvent calamity as opportunity and went door-to-door to gain clients. She noted the unique opportunity to have sales representatives canvass in the streets. So, where other businesses didn't, Valentina saw her opening and did. Through her grit and resiliency, Eco Rentals stayed afloat.

After getting certified with Broward County as a CBE (County Business Enterprise) in 2021, Eco Rental began to provide construction equipment rentals for the Greater Fort Lauderdale | Broward County Convention Center expansion project.

How can you mine your own success like Valentina? New business owners might consider the following:

1. Meet with a business coach regularly.
2. Write down your goals. Have timelines attached to each, measurable deliverables, and make sure that they are realistic.
3. Hustle and don't stop!​
   

​D Electrician Technical Services, Inc.

Terrence Davis, CEO​

Lighting Pathways for Others

In 2000, Edward Rollett offered his Electrical Contractor License to help Terrence Davis start his own electrical business. D Electrician Technical Services, Inc. was formed in 2001 with Terrence Davis as the company CEO.

By 2004, Terrence had obtained his Contractor's License. Soon after, he became a CBE (County Business Enterprise) by getting certified with Broward County. Terrence states, “Through my participation in Broward County's small business programs and the access they provide to opportunities, D. Electrician continues to advance. Truth be told, the Broward County government organization is one of our best customers to date."

D Electrician Technical Services, Inc. is proud to pilot 'Global Electrician Day' with the support of area electricians. In 2019, a declaration was signed by sixty-six (66) Broward County residents proclaiming annual recognition of 'Electrician Day' as the last Saturday in May.​

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Solid Consulting Engineers, Inc.

Osvaldo Larrazabal, Principal / Sr. Project Engineer 

Research Produces Results

1. After college, Osvaldo Larrazabal worked his way up from a bridge designer to management for an engineering firm. He learned the ins and outs of the industry and the importance of having a stellar reputation. By 2014, Osvaldo had started his own company becoming the Principal / Sr. Project Engineer at Solid Consulting Engineers, Inc.  In 2017, after researching Broward County certifications that would benefit his business, Osvaldo got certified as a CBE (County Business Enterprise).

   His company has 22 employees now. Currently, Solid Consulting Engineers provide Construction Engineering Inspection (CEI) services on 3 Broward County projects including 1 project that is funded by the Mobility Advancement Program (MAP Broward). Osvaldo landed the MAP Broward opportunity after researching upcoming MAP Broward projects and attending events where he connected with project managers.

   Just how did Oswaldo enhance his chance to succeed? Check out Larrazabal's Lean In & Win Tips ideal for small businesses:

   1. Pay attention to OESBD's Business Assistance Weekly newsletter. It has information on what is current and what's coming up.
   2. Do your research.
   3. Don't be afraid to approach Broward County staff. They are willing to help.
   4. Start as a subcontractor to understand the process of doing business with Broward County before becoming a prime contractor.

   Learn How to Get Certified.​

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ASA Consultants, Inc. 

Soheila Sadough, President and Senior Structural Engineer

When Opportunity Knocks​

Soheila Sadough had worked for over 20 years as an engineer before her employer decided to close their office in the United States. At the time, Soheila had been working on that company's contract with the Department of Transportation before she was offered the opportunity of a lifetime to start her own business in order to continue working on the project. In 2015, Soheila formed ASA Consultants, Inc. As president and senior structural engineer for ASA Consultants and given Soheila's stellar performance with previous employers, Soheila was called upon to perform as a subconsultant on various projects.

By 2016, ASA Consultants had become CBE certified as a County Business Enterprise in Broward County. Currently, Soheila's  company has 5-6 projects with Broward County including a MAP Broward (Mobility Advancement Program) funded project. 

Check out Soheila's Top 4 Tips for Small Businesses:

1. Once certified, inform your previous clients of your certification and how you can be of assistance to them to meet the CBE goal on projects
2. Start as a subcontractor first to learn how Broward County does business
3. Administrative tasks were challenging when first starting this business. Hiring professionals to assist was worth the investment.
4. Being certified with the Department of Transportation in various engineering specialties has allowed ASA Consultants, Inc. to be utilized in different capacities. ​
   

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Smith Building, Inc.

Jason T. Smith, President

Reputation Outweighs Profit​

After working for a general contractor for 15 years, Jason T. Smith took a leap of faith and started his own business becoming President of Smith Building, Inc., in 2017. Jason's journey began by providing concrete work as a subcontractor and with one truck.  Today, Smith Building employs 40 people and has a fleet of 11-12 trucks. With admiration for those working hard in the field and observing the strong camaraderie among the contractors in that sector, Jason prioritizes company culture as one of the keys to the success of his business. “It's really a family-type company with a real good culture, full of people with integrity," said Jason adding that “[when] people see that, it's your own marketing campaign." Jason cultivates a winning culture thanks to monthly outings, in-house activities, picnics, and an annual Christmas party for both staff and affiliates.

According to Jason, being certified as a Broward County CBE (County Business Enterprise) since 2018 is the number one reason why their firm has been successful. The CBE Program assisted Smith Building in landing its first million-dollar job at the Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport. Currently, Smith Building is a subcontractor providing reinforcement installation on the Greater Fort Lauderdale | Broward County Convention Center Expansion Project.

Smith's Tips for Small Business Success:

1. Planning is key. Watch your overhead costs, have work lined up and a revenue source to cover it all.
2. Have Faith!
3. Get Certified! Complete Broward County's SBE (Small Business Enterprise)/CBE paperwork.
4. Connect with potential vendors face-to-face.
5. Thoroughly review your contracts.
6. Always do the right thing. Reputation outweighs profit.
7. Be a leader.
8. Persevere!
   
   

Amos Supply Inc.

Carlos Hurst, President/Owner

Surviving the Storms - 49 Years in Business​

Carlos Hurst, President/Owner of Amos Supply Inc., has been in business since 1975. Surviving economic downturns and even a pandemic, Amos Supply Inc. has managed to stay afloat as one of Broward County's local suppliers of waterworks & plumbing supplies. As a pioneer for the inclusion of small businesses in Broward County contracting, Carlos had served on Broward County's Small Business Advisory Board pushing for the implementation of the County Business Enterprise (CBE) Program among other initiatives. In 2012, he achieved a tremendous victory for the small business community thanks to launch and implementation of the CBE program. His hard work benefitted many local businesses and, said Carlos, “[the CBE program] saved my business."

Amos Supply, Inc. has since won several contracts as a Small Business Enterprise (SBE) and CBE. More recently, he has provided materials for the Greater Fort Lauderdale | Broward County Convention Center expansion project.

How did Amos Supply, Inc. survive it all?

1. Maintaining good credit
2. Being honest with suppliers and customers about what they can provide
3. Cutting back during economic downtimes
4. Working hard

Carlos' advice to new firms? GET CERTIFIED!

Janitorial 5 Star Services LLC

Mikelange Olbel, Co-Owner

More Than Just Business

After over 15 years of experience providing janitorial services, Janitorial 5 Star Services officially launched their family business in 2017. As someone focused on advancement, Co-Owner Mikelange Olbel capitalized on the opportunities provided through Broward County's CBE (County Business Enterprise) Program. After Mikelange attended an event where speakers Sandy-Michael E. McDonald, Director of the Broward County Office of Economic and Small Business Development (OESBD), and Deputy County Administrator Kimm R. Campbell highlighted Broward County's small business programs mission, Janitorial 5 Star Services got certified in 2019. Soon after Janitorial 5 Star Services landed a contract providing janitorial services for the Greater Fort Lauderdale | Broward County Convention Center expansion project.

​With a desire to uplift the residents of underserved areas, Janitorial 5 Star Services makes it a priority to hire from these communities. Today, they employ more than 30 people. “We know when we create jobs, when we empower people, [and] when we make sure people can be their own fishermen and fisherwomen and provide for their children, that's what creates a healthy economic system," said Mikelange.

Mikelange's 6 Tips for Small Businesses Success

1. Connect with your local chamber of commerce. They can be hugely helpful to create opportunities for small businesses.
2. Focus on winning. “When we're winning, we're not just winning for us, but we're winning for others."
3. Do your research on companies. Interview them. Speak with their previous vendors and subcontractors.
4. Be solution oriented. “If there is an issue where a prime is not doing what they promised, call them to the carpet."
5. You can do this work!
6. Consider partnering with a smaller firm.

“When I look at the leadership of our county…I think we all want the same vision. We all want a better Broward, and a better Broward [is] when we all work together…when people feel like there is an opportunity to stand on their own two feet," said Mikelange.

Mega Construction Group, Inc.

Nicolas Lluch, President

Get Certified. Get Noticed.

Mega Construction Group, Inc., President Nicolas Lluch began his business as a one-man crew in 2007. He worked to obtain his general contractor license. And, after getting certified as a Broward County CBE (County Business Enterprise) in 2018, the Broward County Office of Economic and Small Business Development (OESBD) added Mega Construction Group, Inc., to the Certified Firms Directory. Opportunity next knocked when a vendor seeking to participate in the CBE goal to construct the Greater Fort Lauderdale | Broward County Convention Center Expansion Project contacted Mega Construction Group, Inc.

As a result, Mega Construction Group, Inc., was able to land a contract providing stucco labor, material, and equipment. Not only is Mega Construction Group, Inc., being used for phase 1 of the project, they are also being considered for work on phase 2. Mega Construction Group, Inc., has since expanded their services and client base thanks to their involvement on the Expansion Project. 

Nicolas offers the following tips for small businesses starting their entrepreneurial journey: “Get involved in [the CBE] program because it will give you opportunities that you don't have…" and “Do a good job. You need to perform so they call you again…"

Interested in having your small business listed in Broward County's Certified Firms Directory? Find out more about CBE certification today. 

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A&E Construction Solutions, LLC

​Karla Luna, President

It Works When You Work It

Business owner Karla Luna started working on the certification application for her company A&E Construction Solutions, LLC after receiving a tip from a successful client highlighting the advantages of becoming a Broward County CBE or County Business Enterprise. By 2019, the president of A&E Construction Solutions, LLC had succeeded in getting her company certified as a CBE. So when Karla received an email from the Broward County Office of Economic and Small Business Development (OESBD) about construction of the Greater Fort Lauderdale | Broward County Convention Center expansion project, she took notice. Karla attended the Meet & Greet event where she connected with Balfour Beatty, the project's prime contractor. Soon after, Karla was awarded a contract as a subconsultant to provide temporary project laborers.

Karla attributes her involvement in this project to the efforts of OESBD and said, “The CBE Program was the first thing that [drew] us to [Balfour Beatty] because [OESBD] required [Balfour Beatty] to include small businesses like us in government projects to help the local community."

When asked if Karla had any tips for small businesses, she offered the following advice:

• “It's not easy. You have to focus a lot, which is very difficult for some of us, but it has been worth it."
• “Read the emails [from OESBD]!"
• “Save a lot of money. You're gonna need it as your working capital."
• “Stick to quality."

Karla understands that Broward County's CBE Program is here to support local small businesses and to help businesses participate in and gain access to County procurement opportunities. However, it only works when you work it. Use these tips from Karla at A&E Construction Solutions, LLC, and create your own success story.

Karla added, “I believe that [OESBD] has helped tremendously and I know it's not just with me. I heard stories about other companies like me and it does work."

As a certified business (CBE/SBE/ACDBE/DBE), OESBD establishes goals and reserves solicitations creating access to billions of dollars in government procurement. Learn How to Get Certified​

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​H84 Exports, Inc.

John Hendriks, Chief Executive Officer

Diannette Rivera-Hendriks, Chief Operating Officer​

A Family Business Legacy

​In 2014, John Hendriks returned home and told his wife and soon-to-be-business-partner Diannette Rivera-Hendriks, “Listen, I have an idea." John had already been selling supplies, dealing with contractors, and handling export logistics when he realized, said Diannette, “'I'm doing it for them. They're making millions. They're doing well but I'm not, you know, I'm not here and we need something else if we're going to survive and grow and provide better for our family.'" Her response? “I believe in you … OK. Let's do it."

Convention Center Expansion Project Involvement

And that's how H84 Exports started on their path to becoming one of Broward County's County Business Enterprises (CBEs) working on the Greater Fort Lauderdale|Broward County Convention Center where they were contracted to crate and warehouse Sailfish in Three Stages of Ascending - the iconic 30-foot-tall, black granite and bronze water fountain created by famed artist Kent Ullberg. H84 Exports also does international shipping, warehousing, freight consolidation, logistics, and building supplies. What began from 2 small storage units has expanded into a 4-person workforce and 4,000 square foot warehouse with plans for their own warehouse and to grow operations nationally.

“We started the company, and we thought we were going to… have customers coming to us right away. We didn't. But we hung in… When people found out [John] has started his own thing, people came," said Diannette. In 2018, Diannette suggested to John that “certification might be something that we should be looking at," and attended a certification workshop at the Florida Women's Business Center (FWBC).

Success Mindset and Getting Certified

“I got the company certified and from there, we kept going to workshops that the County was holding. Every time there was a workshop, we would come and learn a little bit more but at that point I wasn't sure, like, if we could really win bids. And we were, like, kind of scared… 'Can we do this?' 'No, let's not do this,' 'This government bidding's not for us,' 'We don't know what we're doing.'"

The tenacious couple attended several Broward County Office of Economic and Small Business Development (OESBD) Meet & Greets with prime contractors, bid preparation workshops, met OESBD Director Sandy-Michael E. McDonald, and signed up for the Business Assistance Weekly newsletter. “These kind of things started to give us a little bit more confidence … in preparing bids… we felt confident that were going to do something with it," said Diannette.

Focusing on preparation prompted a mindset shift from scared, said Diannette, “To oh no, no, this is amazing. All we need to do it be properly prepared and we can serve, and we are here! … We tell everyone, “You're not certified? Why are you not certified? Do you understand what this means for your business? It's 9 years. We're really excited with where we are now."

The certification process was not without its challenges but, said Diannette, “As we learned what was required of us to be vetted and get certified… it kind of legitimized us a little bit more." With help from Broward County, the couple assembled their certification documents. That packet became like a solicitation template they used repeatedly.

Organizational Evolution

'We've evolved as a company and as business owners … to providing supply solutions and logistics solutions to government agencies... like Broward County… and solving their problems for supplies and logistics…We've really now shifted ourselves to understand what the buyer and the procurement professional needs from a partner… We still do exports but … we are a better partner here on our home front helping our communities and helping our local governments."

The work is rewarding, said Diannette, “To be at a park and be the people that supplied it, and you see them using it, you get a certain satisfaction... We're keeping the money within our communities… [and] helping our people… we really want to keep growing in this sector... helping to build something better… [We're] building dreams … taking it from blueprint to reality."

Vision and Legacy

“When John and I first started, it was just survival… to not at the end of the month have no money and worry about how to pay bills... We wanted to be, control our own time… to have freedom to spend with our own children, each other," said Diannette.

“One of our core values is to provide excellent customer service but also be very fair and competitive with our pricing… We are just now looking at what other projects can we bring our expertise … our commitment to excellence, and our dedication to customer service… and when something's not right… finding a solution," said Diannette.

“There's been a few mindset shifts as we've grown, as we've evolved. One of the main ones has been is building a legacy for our kids through this business… They see us have the highs and the lows, you know, of having our own business and… they're like, it isn't always easy but it's worth it." Working alongside a spouse can be “challenging and rewarding all in the same day … I am really blessed to be able to work with John and be front row to bring the idea he had … and being the person … supporting him … to bring it to life."

Women and Girls in Leadership

When she thinks of her 15-year-old, 11-year-old, and 9-year-old daughters, Diannette questions, “Our oldest… is going to be a junior. What are we leaving for her? What are we leaving for the little one, you know? Are we making a good mark in our community?... When we're gone… if they want to continue the company … that it has a name to it that … means good value … Not just in terms of product or service but really as people."

“When we first started… they'd be like 'Mommy works for daddy' … in their minds the women always works for the guys and then what they're seeing sometimes on TV… As they grew, they take pride 'No, my mom works with my dad. My mom runs the company with him," said Diannette. “Now when we talk business, [our daughters] are really engaged. They're asking questions when we're on projects, like, 'So, why did you charge that?'… They have a confidence that I didn't have coming into it because now they see me doing it, like, 'Oh we can do this' … Now, my community around us are women in business. A lot of my friends own small businesses, and they hear that. They have a tribe of women that are in business… As a mom… I want you to know you have options." One has created a business planning journal, another is focused on social media ideas, while the other declares a future for the family business that includes a yacht. “That right there makes you want work even harder, especially because I'm their mom and they're girls. I'm like, yes."

Learn How to Get Certified

As a certified business (CBE/SBE/ACDBE/DBE), OESBD establishes goals and reserves solicitations creating access to billions of dollars in government procurement. Now is your time to Get Certified.

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ASK Cable Communications, Inc.

Kenya Jackson, President/Partner

Orlando Camejo, Director of Operations/Partner

Powered by Perseverance

In 2003, Kenya Jackson partnered with Orlando Camejo to start ASK Cable Communications, Inc. They set up shop out of Kenya’s home and Orlando’s backyard. Flash forward to 2023, and the pair are now responsible for more than 30 workers, a fleet of vehicles, 4 warehouses, and 4 office spaces with plans to purchase their own facility. Over the years, they’ve grown steadily due to their diligence and hard work on several projects including the Greater Fort Lauderdale | Broward County Convention Center Expansion Project.

​​Convention Center Responsibilities

“The Convention Center has been a blessing,” Kenya said. “It has impacted our business being a part of the work being done… There were a lot of different contractors that put guys to work …during the slowest times even COVID, you know. It kept a lot of people working, making money through hard times. There really aren’t any bad things to say about [the expansion project],” said ASK’s President. “When you do good work,” continued Kenya, “It comes back to you. We don’t really advertise. It’s been word of mouth. We stand by our work,” added Kenya. According to AskCableCommunications.com, the telecommunications company provides accurate installation of electrical, voice, data, and fiber optical wiring. As subcontractor to ASC Telecom at the Convention Center, Kenya explained, “We had to relocate fiber because there were some light posts or trees in the way of construction. We had to move fiber a few feet and pull in new fiber.”

Get Certified as a County Business Enterprise (CBE)

“As a certified contractor, it’s not always nice and easy. I’ve been a CBE for quite a few years, but real doors opened up for me. You just have to stay in there. It does pay off. Don’t get discouraged,” said Kenya. Since getting certified by the Broward County Office of Economic and Small Business Development (OESBD), ASK Communications has worked on projects at Port Everglades, Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport, Town of Davie, City of Coconut Creek, Jackson Memorial Hospital, Hard Rock Stadium, and several projects in Miami. “From day 1, my goal was to get more work and be a CBE, to find the right contractor to hire us, and then from there, to grow with them,” stated Kenya. 

Overcoming Entrepreneurship Challenges 

“You always have some obstacles you have to go around but, like, we keep going. We don’t let it stop us… and do what we need to do to get it done and move on,” Kenya said. “I’ve been a contractor for years. I know what it’s like to give blood and sweat. We stand by our work. We don’t run from anything that’s gone wrong. We correct it,” stated Kenya. Remarking about the growth of ASK Cable, Kenya admits, “It surprised me. I had the goals in my mind, but it did surprise me as fast as we’ve grown. The reasons why is my work ethic. I know that for a fact because a lot of people don’t last in this business unless you have a great work ethic.

“Definitely there’ve some been times when I’ve [gotten] discouraged, but I didn’t stop,” admitted Kenya. “You’ve just got to keep on, keep on pushing. Keep going to the network affairs, and network events that they have … you’ll meet the right people. Just network, network, network… and don’t get discouraged… I stayed in the same field and did what I did and eventually it paid off… People recognize that about me [saying] ‘You never got off your path and what you wanted to do. You kept in it and look at you now.’ That’s good to hear.”

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Kaola King

King Intelligence and Security Services, Inc.

I enjoyed working at the Sheriff's Office in the finance field. However, I was inspired by my Deputy coworkers to consider a business in the security guard industry, which I started in 2008. Now 13 years later, we are thriving and remain dedicated to creating a safer environment for all.
954-624-2040​

"As a minority-owned firm, King Intelligence and Security Services, Inc. (KISSI) employs approximately 75 people. Since starting the business, our biggest challenge was facing companies in the security industry longer than King. However, I started attending events hosted by the Office of Economic and Small Business Development (OESBD), where I learned about their certification programs and other business resources. I decided to get certified to help overcome our challenge as well as to have an opportunity to obtain government contracts and grow my business.

Getting certified has impacted my business positively. We were able to obtain the Unarmed Security Services contract at the Broward County Convention Center Expansion and Hotel Project with Balfour Beatty Construction. This experience has been amazing; all I wanted was an opportunity to show the quality services that King Intelligence and Security Services, Inc. provides.

Being certified allowed KISSI to be awarded a contract for the Super Bowl LIV in Miami. As we continue to grow our business, we have secured other major contracts with Turner Construction, Stiles,​ the School District of Palm Beach County, and Turner-Kiewit.​

I remain engaged with OESBD by attending their ZOOM webinars and reading their weekly eNewsletter, the Business Assistance Weekly." ​​

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Dudly Pauletie​nne

Dudly's Professional Services, LLC
We provide Community Outreach, Administrative Support, Project Control, Permitting, and Technical Services. We've been in business for over 10 years.
305-816-6470​

"After being laid off, I moved back to South Florida and decided to start my own business. I started my business with just a laptop and printer. My company's philosophy is to help bridge the disconnect between large organizations/businesses and small businesses. Results inspire me!

I attended an OESBD event (pre-COVID) and there stood Sandy-Michael McDonald telling the crowd that there's opportunity out there and that it's up to you to go after them. I went up to him, asked to meet with him, and he agreed. The rest was history! I also met the rest of the Office of Economic and Small Business Development (OESBD) team, who are always willing to help. Their doors are always open for CBE firms who want to learn more about opportunities.

I landed a contract for the Broward County Convention Center Expansion and Hotel Project with Balfour Beatty Construction; what I learned on that project was mind-blowing. The assistance and guidance I received from OESBD and the Balfour Beatty team were endless. My expertise and ideas were also welcomed throughout my time ​on the project.

During, and even after, my contract ended, I remained engaged with OESBD. I look forward to the BAW once a week and my favorite feature is the direct workshops with various cities that have upcoming Surtax projects. Staying engaged with OESBD has helped me tremendously." ​​

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Rhonda & ​​Dave Rosenof

Big Dog Construction Services
After beginning with residential renovations, we created opportunities for commercial and public work, and now also build exclusive homes.

954-757-8015

"We had always dreamed of starting a business founded on the values and culture that were important to us. Adversity brings opportunity and in 2013, Dave was laid off from his corporate job and the reliability of weekly paychecks and benefits. We realized that “job security” is an illusion and that the only way to gain control over our future was to take charge of it ourselves. Armed with a General Contractor’s license that he had received a year earlier as part of his professional development, we knew that this was our “It’s Now or Never” moment.

We sincerely care about every employee, project, and client. Most importantly, we do what we say we will do. We follow the spirit of George Bernard Shaw who said “Don’t wait for the right opportunity – create it”.

Once we received our Broward Business License it's hard to avoid Sandy’s emails! The certification process was relatively simple, only requiring us to provide some basic information. The yearly renewal is similarly easy.

In 2016 we were asked to provide up to 15 workers for the FLL Terminal 1 project to help meet SBE goals. At the time, we employed one carpenter and one project manager. This seemed beyond our capabilities. Dave posted a quote on Rhonda’s wall – “If somebody offers you an amazing opportunity but you are not sure you can do it, say yes—then learn how to do it later!” Working with Career Source Broward, our hires lead to over 2½ years of work. This opened the door to similar work at the airport, courthouse, and convention center.

We continue to share with OESBD issues related to doing business as an SBE/CBE. Our hope is that sharing our concerns and suggestions will lead to improvements in the program which will benefit us all."​

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Sustainable Road Engineering (SRE)

I started my business to apply my knowledge and experience to serve my community while earning a living. I have 30 years of experience as a Professional Engineer and served as a Professor of Civil Engineering at Florida International University (FIU) for many years. I have also worked for Federal, State, and Local governments as well as the private sector. Over the years, I learned a lot about road building and best practices for maintaining roads. I am here to serve the interests of my clients and help them maintain their infrastructure in a cost-effective manner.​

I was helped by the Office of Economic and Small Business Development at Broward County to obtain my CBE/SBE certification many years ago. The office has been extremely helpful and supportive. On many occasions, the office exemplified the government behavior which is advocated in the classic "Reinventing Government" book. Many thanks to the Director and his staff for setting the example of a proactive and result-oriented government. Entry to business is very challenging because it requires capital to build the team before production and revenues exist. However, being a CBE/SBE gives new and small companies a chance to compete against well-established companies. As a certified CBE, I get calls and emails from prime contractors bidding on jobs which allowed me to market my services to them.

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Dawn Watts

​DW Consultants Inc.

After 20 years as an Executive in the Corporate Sector, my career didn't allow the time I needed for networking or connecting with the community. I felt an overwhelming obligation to contribute. I wanted to make a difference in my community. In February 2020, I started DW Consultants Inc. to pursue my passion for supporting small business enterprises and non-profit organizations. ​​

Advocating for small businesses, diversity, equality, and community progress inspires me. I worked diligently to apply for every certification that was available for my business. Through extensive research, and networking with key supplier diversity contact leads, I realized the enormous opportunities for my business through government contracting.

I learned about the Office of Economic and Small Business Development (OESBD) Certification Programs through a Supplier Diversity contact at Broward County Public Schools. I started attending all the workshops/training available through OESBD and registered on Periscope, the County's bidding system. I began searching for open bids that matched by NAICS code and when I saw the opportunities available, specifically for my business, I understood the importance of becoming CBE/SBE certified.

​The process of becoming a CBE/SBE has been extremely beneficial to my business. I utilize my experience of completing the certification process to train, educate and encourage other small business owners to work toward obtaining certification. I've also submitted two Proposals for Solicitations in Broward County since becoming certified! The work you put in before submitting a bid is very important. It is paramount to read every single page of the solicitation very carefully. I highlight important areas, pay very close attention to the details related to the Scope of Work, and make sure to include all the required documents.

I encourage other small businesses to educate and familiarize themselves with the certification process. Attend every workshop available with OESBD and utilize their resource partners to get additional assistance with completing the certification process.

I can honestly say that my journey as a CBE/SBE has been very exciting. More importantly, the OESBD staff was very helpful throughout my certification process. Now that I'm certified, I'm excited about all the opportunities available for CBE/SBE's.

​​​​​​I am very grateful for the opportunity to grow and scale my business in Broward County. Thank you to the entire OESBD Team for making it such a great experience!