Starting a small (SBE) firm - questions

[rceconsulting]

Hi all,

I am in the initial stages of establishing a new structural engineering firm. My intent is to become certified as as SBE. I was wondering if anyone has any experience or knowledge regarding this process. For example, does the business need to be established for any amount of time prior to applying for certification? Will revenues, full time employees and physical office be required before certification? There is predictably a mountain of paperwork I am now going through which is fairly intimidating. Any first hand experience or feedback will be appreciated. Thanks.

 

[FixedEarth]

Why not start small, build a practice then consider incorporating and filing SBE once you reach certain revenue level? I have stayed away from even filing it, because I would rather have 50 small clients instead of 5 large ones. If you become SBE you would be involved in large projects which will demand a lot of resources. It is better to use these resources for marketing and cash flow infusion of slow months rather than going from 1 to 20 in year one.

 

[rceconsulting]

Thanks FixedEarth. I have considered that. The reason the SBE interests me is because that type of large scale government work is where my experience lies, as well as where my contacts are. Its the area where I feel most comfortable and confident that I would be able to get work. The smaller clients are a definate and possibly necessary option, however its actually a little more intimidating to me because I have such a different background. Thanks again for the input. I will let you know how things progress.

 

[FixedEarth]

Good to know. With the background you mentioned, it may be less painful to be a subcontractor for a larger SBE. For example, find yourself a large Geotechnical or Transportation firm that is SBE and mention that you are a new SBE specialinzing in structural design. The consulting conditions are a lot better now than 3 years ago. Good luck.