To celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, Build Fund‘s Business Development Specialist, Ross Huggins, had the pleasure of sitting down with Geraldo of GMR Construction Services, a dynamic, Hispanic-owned business making a significant impact in the construction industry. Geraldo highlights GMR’s journey, the challenges they’ve overcome, and the importance of fostering diversity and inclusion within the sector. Through their innovative work and commitment to excellence, GMR Construction Services stands as an inspiring example of the contributions Hispanic entrepreneurs bring to the local community and beyond.
How did you get started?
I started 15 years ago doing rehabs on distressed houses and slowly moved up to bigger projects. Originally, I started in a partnership, but I decided to venture out on my own and start GMR about 3 years ago.
How did you hear about AFFORDABLE HOMEMATTER?
I used to work for a property management company and one of the supervisors introduced me to the AHM team. That was about 3 years ago, in 2022. We are 6 projects in with Affordable HomeMatter as we head into 2025.
What motivates you?
I owned a business with a partner that didn’t go well, so a lot of my motivation comes from wanting to rebuild my business and take care of the guys that I employ that have been loyal to me and my business.
Why is being a business owner important to you?
I have been offered jobs and even partnerships, but I prefer to be able to pick where and when I work and who I work with. Being able to keep the guys that have been there since the beginning employed and busy is very important to me. I also take pride in doing good work that is pleasing to my clients.
What are your future goals for GMR Construction Services?
I want to continue to grow my company by developing a real estate division, hiring more employees, increase my team’s pay, and provide them bigger projects that will hopefully provide a platform that will allow them to start their own companies.
How will the Build Fund loan help you accomplish those goals?
The Build Fund loan provides a lower interest rate, which will help a lot. Also, a bigger loan puts me on the fast track to bigger and more projects. That will help with paying my contractors more while still being able to grow my business.
