DAP Construction Management, LLC
Dedication, commitment, leadership, strategic thinking, adaptability, team collaboration and a willingness to seek answers are among the attributes of a good soldier and of a potentially successful small business owner.
Alicia Hernandez is one such veteran who built a thriving business from the ground up. Since she started DAP Construction Management in 2009, it has earned over $40 million in revenues through general construction services and management contracts across 14 states.
Alicia reached the rank of Captain in the Army where, for actions during the first Persian Gulf War, she was awarded the Bronze Star Medal for Valor. In civilian life she worked for an 8(a) firm looking to open an office in Arizona. She sought assistance from the SBA Arizona District Office in Phoenix and in so doing discovered how she could strike out on her own.
As Alicia puts it, “The SBA changed my life. During a visit in 2009, SBA contracting staff encouraged me to believe in myself and to pursue my own business. With their assistance and mentorship, I confidently formed my company.” Arizona District Office staff helped her qualify as an SDVOB, WOSB, HUBZONE and 8(a) certified firm and adapt to the requisite new business practices.
Those initial contacts established a lasting relationship with SBA. Alicia continues to look to the Arizona staff for assistance in contracting and building the business. She credits SBA with helping her navigate through business startup, bonding restrictions and limitations, regulatory requirements and compliance, training and leadership courses, client, large and small subcontractor exposure, business development tools and payment protection financial support during COVID crisis. For example, to weather the COVID crisis Alicia took advantage of the PPP loan program, receiving $147,000 in funds to support the business.
Alicia describes her experience with SBA as “phenomenal” and credits its support with helping DAP flourish and expand to a national presence. She routinely participates in the SBA District Office’s monthly “Selling to the Federal Government” workshops and has taken advantage of joint SBA/GSA “Industry Days,” where contractors are asked to pitch their capabilities to contracting agencies. She also has a close relationship with the local APEX Accelerator Center which partners with SBA to help businesses better compete for federal contracts.
DAP is currently working on contracts in Arizona, New Mexico, Washington, Texas and California with various entities throughout the south and northwest regions of the United States, including U.S. Customs and Border Protection; the Davis Monthan, Cannon, Luke Air Force bases; and the General Services Agency.
Seeds to Success: “Persistence, Tenacity, Keep Moving Forward, Diversify and understand your client and employees”
Advice to others: “View your SBA as a trusted advisor and wealth manager… Don’t pay for anything related to business development, as the SBA offers assistance for free.”
Watch DAP Construction Management's success story video.