Hispanic Contractors Association of Georgia

As a contractor, one of your primary goals is to build your business, and the Hispanic Contractors Association of Georgia (HCAG) can help. Founded in 2005 for the economic and business development of Hispanic contractors in Georgia, HCAG is the result of an initiative taken by Rafael A. Villegas, president and CEO of HCAG, and Miguel Candelaria, president of MA&O Construction.

Today, the association has nearly 500 members and is one of the most prominent Hispanic contractor associations in the nation. Hispanic Contractors Association of Georgia is committed to ensuring companies operate at their best by supplying them with the necessary knowledge and business acumen to acquire more and better projects and helping them become a part of mainstream construction.

Who can join Hispanic Contractors Association of Georgia?

Hispanic Contractors Association of Georgia’s membership base includes companies and individuals, including minority contractors and subcontractors of all sizes; large worldwide general contractors; international construction companies and individuals; and professional service providers, vendors and manufacturers.

Is HCAG membership just for contractors from Georgia?

No. Our membership represents 12 states and five countries. There are many benefits for out-of-state members, including local market knowledge and a competitive advantage when bidding a job in Georgia.

What programs and services does HCAG provide?

The Hispanic Contractors Association of Georgia offers a wide array of programs and services, including a variety of educational programs designed to increase knowledge in all areas of construction, consulting, estimating, procurement, referrals, networking, marketing and promotion, and advocacy.

What type of networking activities are there?

HCAG holds quarterly meetings and sponsors several networking events that bring together construction businesses in an atmosphere of diversity, inclusion and creativity. Activities include the HCAG Golf Invitational, the “Compadres de la Construcción” Awards Banquet, a Latin Food Fest Contest, the HCAG Skeet Shooting Open, a “Meet and Greet the General Contractor” event, general contractor mentoring luncheons, plus many workshops and seminars to help businesses grow.

Are there opportunities at HCAG to volunteer?

We rely on volunteers at various levels, from running committees—such as events and green building—to teaching courses, doing administrative work, etc.

Can I list job openings?

Absolutely. When we get a solicitation, we spread the word through different channels. Additionally, we offer a membership directory, weekly bid alerts on upcoming projects, and direct referrals.

Do I have to join HCAG to be in the directory?

Yes. HCAG is committed to helping its members identify opportunities and establish relationships with general contractors, subcontractors, vendors and providers. One way we do that is with the HCAG Membership Directory.

Is HCAG growing to cover other states?

HCAG is working to open additional offices in Georgia, and we have been instrumental in forming The Carolinas Chapter. Additionally, we have assisted people interested in opening new chapters around the nation. For additional information and a full list of the programs and services HCAG offers, please visit www.hcageorgia.org or call (678) 205-0651.

—By Adriana Sibaja