GMA Construction Group (GMA) is a General Contractor, Construction Manager, and Design-Builder certified as a Minority Business Enterprise (MBE), Veteran Owned Small Business (VOSB), Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE), and Section 3 Business Concern. Founded in 2009, GMA was established with an overarching mission: developing people and transforming communities. GMA’s projects empower underserved communities with new and/or improved community assets and high-paying job opportunities in the construction industry ensuring sustainability and wealth accumulation for future generations.
Our Impact
- 76th
- Largest Midwest General Contractor
- 42%
- Average M/WBE Participation
- $250m
- Bonding Capacity
Our Story
Early Life
GMA’s mission is rooted in the life and experiences of its founder, Cornelius Griggs. Raised in the City’s toughest West Side neighborhoods as a ward of the state, his childhood included exposure to homelessness, domestic violence, and addiction.
Important Mentors and Organizations
Positive relationships with his grandfather, a veteran, and participation in community organizations such as the Introspect Youth Services TRIO Program enabled him to overcome adversity, while fostering his interest in science, technology, math, and engineering.
Education and Military Service
Cornelius attended Chicago State University and honorably served our county during Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom. His dedication and determination earned him the Army Commendation medal.
Large General Contractor Experience
After graduating college, Cornelius went to work for two of the largest general contractors building projects across the country. He held roles in all aspects of the business including project management and estimating.
Establishing the Mission
Cornelius defined GMA’s overarching mission: Developing people that will transform communities—a call to do good for all types of underserved communities. Cornelius recognized the construction industry was extremely special, but it lacked diversity. He sought to change that from within.
Focused on Impact
As his vision and experience resonated with clients looking to make an impact, the firm in its infancy was awarded several important community-based projects such as the Bloom Township Food Pantry renovation. Cornelius established housing, healthcare, and education as the three primary sectors of business.
Giving Back
With gratitude for the organizations and mentors that impacted his life, Cornelius engaged with non-profit organizations, local government officials, job and skills training organizations, and educational institutions to develop and support programs that increase participation of minorities in the construction industry.
Continued Service
Since 2019, GMA has delivered work for the federal government including important projects for the Air National Guard, General Services Administration, and National Park Service. As a veteran-owned firm, we are committed to expanding our portfolio with a business program dedicated to serving the federal government.
GMA Today
GMA has work across the United States with offices in Illinois, Texas, and New York. GMA is ranked as the 76th largest general contractor in the Midwest according to Engineering News Record. We have 60 full-time professionals and five community hires working as laborers on our projects. Our portfolio spans eight unique sectors with a focus on housing, education, and healthcare.
Work At GMA