Black, Indigenous and people of colour (BIPOC) construction professionals have been historically under-represented in the industry but a new partnership between George Brown College and the Afro-Canadian Contractors Association (ACCA) is poised to change that.
The partnership will provide targeted training in areas like business development, financial management, and leadership to entrepreneurs.
In September 2024, George Brown and the ACCA unveiled the first training program in the partnership: Entrepreneurship in Construction. The course offers a comprehensive curriculum covering the essential elements of establishing your own business in the industry.
Networking, mentorship and skill-building
Shedrack Idemudia, a George Brown graduate and CEO of 905 RENO, said having access to skill-building and mentoring opportunities is essential to overcome the very real challenges faced by BIPOC entrepreneurs.
"As a first-generation immigrant, I didn't have the mentors, a networking base or seed capital to start my painting business, so I built my community and business from scratch," he said.
Idemudia is a proud participant in the program that eases the transition into the construction industry by providing vital networking opportunities for BIPOC contractors and access to George Brown construction industry alumni and partners.
"At George Brown, we believe in the power of education to transform lives and communities," said George Brown College President Dr. Gervan Fearon. "This partnership with ACCA reflects our commitment to fostering a more inclusive construction industry and to assist in meeting labour market needs."
The ACCA is a non-profit organization dedicated to advocating for the advancement and representation of BIPOC contractors and construction professionals across Canada. It offers resources, networking opportunities and educational programs designed to support the growth and success of its members in the construction industry.
"We're incredibly proud to collaborate with George Brown College on this important initiative," said ACCA President Stephen Callender. "This course is more than just education; it's about empowering BIPOC contractors to take control of their futures and contribute meaningfully to the industry."
Supporting Entrepreneurship
Dr. Eileen De Courcy, George Brown College's Vice President, Academic, underlined the importance of supporting and nurturing entrepreneurship.
"Entrepreneurship is vital to support the growth of Ontario's economy, and we are happy to facilitate such opportunities," she said. "Harnessing the talents of the BIPOC community will also help reinforce the province's reputation as an innovation and productivity hub, which benefits everyone."
This program is funded in part by the Government of Canada and the Government of Ontario, demonstrating their commitment to fostering diversity, equity and inclusion in the Canadian construction industry.
