Clark’s Strategic Partnership Program Classes Kick Off from Coast to Coast

For the past 17 years, Clark has offered its Strategic Partnership Program (SPP) each fall, supporting the development of small minority-, women-, and veteran-owned firms working in construction, engineering, and architecture across the country. This fall, nearly 250 small- and diverse-owned firms are taking part in the SPP as part of the 2023 - 2024 cohort. 

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As the newest market to join the Strategic Partnership Program network, Houston debuted with 50 local small business leaders as part of its inaugural cohort. Orientation began with remarks from the Clark Central Group’s chief executive officer, Cara Lanigan, who stated, “The launch of our Strategic Partnership Program in Houston underscores Clark’s commitment to Houston and long-term investment in growing small businesses throughout this region.” During the orientation, keynote speaker, Dr. Leonard Greenhalgh, shared insights on building capacity for sustainable, high performance, providing approaches for sustainable growth and tools on how to identify strategic opportunities.

The program’s oldest and largest alumni network is located in the Washington, DC metro area where, since 2006, more than 600 entrepreneurs have leveraged key program lessons to take their companies to the next level. This year, 45 diverse business leaders are enrolled in the DC cohort. 

Now in its third year, the Baltimore SPP also welcomed 15 eager entrepreneurs to the program.

The Chicago SPP marked a decade in the making, by welcoming its largest class to date. Nearly 45 participants meet weekly in the city’s southside to hear from construction and business professionals. 

40 small business leaders are taking part in Nashville SPP, building on the success of last year’s inaugural cohort.

Southern California SPP celebrated another kick-off with 30 participants representing small businesses from Los Angeles, San Diego, and Orange County.

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Northern California and Seattle SPP participants heard keynote remarks from Oscar Edwards, chief executive officer of Higher Growth Strategies. More than 50 small business leaders across these markets make up the current cohort. 

The Strategic Partnership Program is part of Clark's holistic approach to developing and mentoring small and diverse businesses. Interested firms can learn more about the Strategic Partnership Program or apply for a future class by visiting the Strategic Partnership Program page.