In 2013, we had an unexpected opportunity to open a general contracting construction business. Taking a risk we decided to establish MJB Construction, LLC in an unsure and recovering construction market. MJB Construction, LLC was founded with the values of family and that customers deserve a quality product for a fair price. As we established ourselves there were many predatory businesses offering “help” for business start ups, at a fee of course. We found ourselves unsure about whom we could trust for guidance as a developing small business. At the recommendation of a fellow general contractor we contacted Jenny at the small business development center. Jenny and her team at the SBDC have been an instrumental source of reliable information and resources that have helped MJB Construction, LLC survive and thrive as a new small business. In addition, they have helped us build our resume and provide resources to establish ourselves as a state and federal contractor. As we continue to grow, we will continue to use the SBDC for assistance and are forever grateful for their genuine help.

SBDC Arizona has been extremely helpful to MJB Construction LLC, a residential and commercial construction company. In 2015, to help us build our business, Jenny Herschaft worked closely with us to clarify and validate our value proposition, core competencies, past performances and key benefits in order to construct our capabilities statements to apply for government contracts. Jenny and her team have helped us take steps towards becoming a women owned and economically disadvantaged small business. Having a capabilities statement has helped us gain visibility for future work. Jenny and her team at the SBDC have also provided continual support and guidance that has given us confidence and piece of mind as we grow. I truly feel that we at MJB Construction LLC have an advocate in the often complicated world of small business This is only a few of the numerous ways in which Jenny and her team provided support to our growing and expanding business.

“I became aware of the SBDC and its services through another construction general contractor and decided to check out the resources available. As a growing small business with limited capital to work with I found Jenny and her team at the SBDC to be an invaluable resource. I truly feel like we have a credible organization to get sound information from and our own personal team to be an advocate for us. I am grateful for to have found Jenny and the SBDC.”

Because of the SBDC and Jenny’s support we have been able to accomplish several key milestones in 2015 including:

• In 2014, our first full year of business our sales were $254K.
• In 2015 we achieved sales growth of $383K and reached $637K in sales.
• In 2016 (to date) we have achieved $985K in sales and anticipate finishing above $1 million.
• Grown from 1 employee in 2013 to 3 in 2016.
• Established a capabilities statement for government contracting.
• Established MJB Construction LLC as a government contractor at the municipal, state, and federal level.

“MJB Construction LLC is a small-medium sized residential and commercial construction company owned and operated by Jennifer Kowacz in Surprise, Arizona. AZSBDC network through the Maricopa Community Colleges is working with the company in several areas. MJB’s primary focus continues to increase in their scope of work specific to tenant improvements, as they working to secure future work in the government contracting arena. MJB’s primary focus is to increase revenues by gaining visibility through larger contracts. We at the SBDC Maricopa expect MJB revenue achievement in 2017 to increase to $1.5M. Results from this revenue growth have created new growth opportunities for MJB to bid on larger contracts and becoming EDWOSB certified.”

Jenny Herschaft, Business Analyst