KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Aug. 26, 2026 — Burns & McDonnell, Evergy and Ralph G. Moore & Associates have completed the latest session of the Accelerate supplier business development program, providing training and mentorship to nearly 40 small and diverse businesses.
The six-month program is designed to help participating companies strengthen their capabilities, develop industry connections and prepare for new business opportunities.
Participants received business development training throughout the program and were paired with sponsors from Burns & McDonnell or Evergy. The mentorship model provides participating businesses with practical knowledge and connections intended to support long-term growth.
The program addresses an important issue for construction and infrastructure firms: developing a broader and more capable supplier base. Smaller contractors and specialty businesses can benefit from stronger business systems, industry relationships and access to procurement opportunities.
Burns & McDonnell said the Aug. 25 graduation recognized leaders from nearly 40 businesses that completed the latest program.
The Accelerate program is part of a broader effort by Burns & McDonnell to expand opportunities for small businesses. Over the past five years, the firm said it has generated $5.9 billion in economic impact through work with more than 2,700 small businesses globally.
For construction owners and contractors, supplier-development initiatives can help strengthen subcontractor and vendor networks while expanding access to qualified businesses. As infrastructure, energy and other capital-intensive construction markets continue to require specialized capacity, developing smaller firms can also support project delivery and workforce resilience.
The collaboration between Burns & McDonnell, Evergy and RGMA demonstrates how mentorship and supplier-development programs can be incorporated into broader procurement and economic-development strategies.
Source: Burns & McDonnell.
