Celebrating Success Stories: Black Women Entrepreneurs in Contracting

Black women entrepreneurs have made significant strides in the government contracting sector, overcoming systemic barriers to achieve remarkable success. This blog highlights inspiring profiles of successful contractors, focusing on their journeys, strategies, and achievements.

Necole Parker: The ELOCEN Group

Necole Parker is a trailblazer in the construction industry, having founded The ELOCEN Group in 2006. Her firm specializes in program and project management for state, local, and federal government agencies, as well as the commercial sector. Parker's leadership has led to impressive growth, with the company expanding into new sectors like sustainability and building operations.

• Achievements: The ELOCEN Group was recognized as the 8(a) Graduate Firm of the Year at the district, regional, and national levels by the U.S. Small Business Administration in 2022. Parker's business acumen has driven a 3,503% increase in revenue during her tenure.

• Contracts: Notable contracts include a five-year, $50 million deal with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for move planning and labor-related services. Other clients include the General Services Administration and the Department of Defense.

Parker's success is a testament to her innovative approach and dedication to empowering her team.

Eronica Dew: Building a Multi-Million Dollar Business

Eronica Dew, a veteran entrepreneur, has built a multi-million dollar contracting business from scratch. Her journey from Air Force veteran to successful business owner is marked by perseverance and strategic planning.

• Strategies: Dew emphasizes the importance of creating winning proposals, developing value propositions, and cultivating relationships in business. She also advises on pricing strategies for government work.

• Impact: Her story serves as motivation for aspiring entrepreneurs, highlighting the potential for growth and success in federal contracting.

Jessica Richey: NC Spotless Pros Power Washing

Jessica Richey, CEO of NC Spotless Pros Power Washing, has transformed her business through strategic certification. By securing multiple certifications (HUB, SBE, DBE, WOSB, and CVMSDC), Richey has positioned her company as a strong contender for government and corporate contracts.

• Achievements: Since becoming certified, NC Spotless Pros Power Washing has submitted over $1 million in bids and been awarded three contracts. Richey also helps other minority-owned businesses navigate the certification process.

• Impact: Her journey showcases how certification can open doors to previously inaccessible opportunities, providing a competitive edge in both government and private sectors.

Lori Smith: Empowering Small Businesses

Lori Smith, founder of Acu-Elligent LLC, has launched the GovCon Revenue program to help Black entrepreneurs access federal government contracts. With over 41 years of federal service experience, Smith provides insider knowledge and proven strategies to transform small businesses into successful government contractors.

• Initiatives: Her comprehensive guide, GovCon Revenue Strategy: The Ultimate Guide for Small Businesses to Win Higher-Priced Contracts, offers a step-by-step roadmap for navigating government contracts and leveraging set-aside programs.

• Impact: This initiative aims to level the playing field for small businesses in government contracting, empowering them to thrive in the federal marketplace.

Conclusion

These success stories highlight Black women entrepreneurs' resilience, innovation, and determinationin government contracting. By sharing their experiences and strategies, they inspire others to pursue opportunities in this sector, paving the way for future generations of entrepreneurs.