Associated Builders and Contractors and the U.S. Veterans Business Alliance signed an agreement during ABC’s annual convention in Long Beach, California, to expand the participation of veteran- and disabled veteran-owned businesses in the construction industry.

“ABC members are committed to achieving a fully inclusive and culturally competent workforce that is welcoming to all people, where employees and suppliers are limited only by their own potential,” said Michael D. Bellaman, ABC president and CEO. “Qualified veteran and disabled veteran subcontractor and suppliers provide value to building and construction projects and to the economy as a whole, and we support the alliance’s mission to help them succeed.”

Through participation in outreach events to promote business opportunities, ABC will encourage members to become alliance sponsors and support building and construction market expansion.

“The alliance and ABC find mutual purpose in promoting an environment in which fair and open competition enhances veteran and disabled veteran business participation,” said Mike Wray, an alliance national board member. “Veterans’ experience in the military prepares them to be smart, capable entrepreneurs, striving to achieve the highest levels of personal and company performance.”