For more than 40 years, the Hispanic American Construction Industry Association (HACIA) has been a voice for equity in Illinois’ construction ecosystem. From advocating for policy change to helping small and diverse-owned businesses build capacity and access opportunity, HACIA’s impact is tangible — and growing.
Today, as industries grapple with workforce shortages, supply chain demands and evolving environmental standards, one truth remains clear: a thriving construction industry must be a diverse one.
A Powerful Network with a Purpose
With more than 350 members, HACIA is one of the largest professional communities of small and diverse construction-related businesses in the state of Illinois. Its members include contractors, architects, engineers and suppliers — from startups to established firms — many of which are navigating barriers tied to scale, access and certification.
New members don’t just gain networking opportunities — they gain a full network of trusted business partners. While more than 3100 individuals attended HACIA’s events in 2024, the organization also offers tailored technical assistance, introductions to decision-makers, M/W/DBE certification assistance and access to workforce and capacity-building programs.
“Our focus is not only creating equity in the construction industry, but ensuring our members grow once they’ve found their place,” says Executive Director Jacqueline Gomez. “That means up our sleeves to provide hands-on support that creates generational wealth and allows our members to build their business successfully
Capacity Building That Works
HACIA’s signature business accelerator — the Executive Fellows Program — helps entrepreneurs strengthen their financial and business plans, expand legal knowledge and more. In 2024 alone, 28 business owners graduated from the program, each gaining individualized support to improve competitiveness and credibility in the construction trade industry.
Participants like Cesar Lopez of Best Networks, Inc.—a Chicagoland-based IT consulting firm specializing in data cabling, fiber optics, and low-voltage systems for the construction industry—have gone on to secure significant contracts and grow their teams. Collectively, graduates of HACIA’s Business Capacity Programs, including Cesar, have secured over $11 million in contracts and projects following program completion.
“This program gave me a clear strategy to scale,” Lopez shared after graduating from the Executive Fellows Program.
Other offerings, like the Contractors Development Program, provide accessible, a-la-carte training for both business owners and their teams — covering everything from estimating and insurance to sustainability and project operations.
The Workforce of Tomorrow Starts Today
Beyond business development, HACIA is also laying the foundation for the construction workforce of the future. In 2024, 313 individuals enrolled in HACIA’s workforce programs, with 282 completing training and 104 securing job placements or union applications.
Programs like the IL Works General Construction Pre-Apprenticeship Program, EV charging installation training and Carpentry Pre-Apprenticeship help HACIA’s job seekers — especially from underserved communities — gain the skills and connections needed to launch sustainable careers.
From Policy to Progress
HACIA’s impact is felt across the state, even inside the Capitol Building in Springfield, where its advocacy team pushes for structural change. In 2024, that work resulted in the implementation of Public Act 103-570 — a game-changing law that reduces bonding barriers for small contractors on IDOT and Tollway projects. This monumental accomplishment opens more work to small and diverse-owned businesses and helps them get involved with the competitive bidding process.
Other wins include legislation for faster payment timelines, better supplier diversity transparency and recognition of local M/WBE certifications. These efforts ensure that small businesses don’t just survive — they compete.
An Invitation to New Business Owners
If you’re a small or diverse business owner in construction — especially one looking to expand, get certified, or build connections — HACIA is the community you’ve been missing. With more than 350 members and plenty of events and/or workshops available, there are professional opportunities waiting for you. HACIA’s membership benefits are also conveniently available on their membership page to provide their membership’s full value.
To learn more about HACIA’s programs, membership, or upcoming events, visit www.haciaworks.org. And to read the full impact report, you can click here.
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Christeen Geddes