Sandown-based JMC Construction and Associates, a general construction firm, entered its fifth year in the

U.S. Small Business Administration’s 8(a) Business Development Program in May 2012. The company, launched in 2004 as Carvalho Electric, LLC, focused solely on the electrical trade at the time.

Since becoming certified for SBA’s 8a program in 2008, the company has expanded its primary capabilities beyond the electrical trade to include general construction projects allowing them to take on additional work. As a result of JMC’s participation in SBA business development activities and matchmaking events, JMC has grown their sales exponentially with revenues exceeding the $1 million milestone in 2011.

Rachael Roderick, the SBA Business Opportunity Specialist who administers the 8a program throughout New Hampshire said "Over the past three years, John Carvalho has used an array of SBA programs and tools to propel his business forward. He has seized opportunities to learn about improved business practices and how best to respond to federal procurement opportunities." She continued, "John has also broadened the focus of his business from solely electrical contracting to take advantage of his more than 30 years in all facets in the field of construction."

JMC has successfully completed many projects including: major renovations for the U.S. Army Soldier System Center in Natick, Massachusetts, the U.S. Army Garrison at Fort Devens, Massachusetts, and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in Hanover, New Hampshire. JMC has been awarded several contracts totaling over $1 million since becoming a government contractor.

According to John Carvalho, "The SBA and its 8(a) program have been instrumental to our success. Through these programs my company was able to build and expand credentials in the electrical and general construction marketplace."

Mr. Carvalho was recognized by the New Hampshire SBA as the 2010 Minority Small Business Person of the Year.