Connecting Hispanic Design and Construction professionals to large-scale opportunities

Founded in 2024, Chicago UNIDOS in Construction is a membership-based organization dedicated to advocating for equitable opportunities for Hispanic contractors and professional services firms in the construction industry

Our mission is to lobby for fair prime and subcontractor opportunities, support the local construction community, and give back to the neighborhoods we serve through philanthropy.

UNIDOS history and background

In 2023, a group of professional contractors in Chicago recognized the need for a dedicated organization to support Hispanic contractors and professional services firms. This led to the establishment of Chicago UNIDOS in Construction (UNIDOS) in 2024, a 501©(6) non-profit membership organization.

Chicago UNIDOS in Construction is committed to advocating for the inclusion, participation, and growth of its members, while also paving the way for future generations of Hispanic contractors and professional services firms

UNIDOS action areas

Mission

UNIDOS is dedicated to:

Advocating for equitable Prime and Subcontractor opportunities for Latino contractors and professional services firms.
Ensuring our political leaders advocate for opportunities that reflect our demographic.
Monitoring and advocating for Latino business and community participation in the Illinois/Chicago construction process.
Supporting elected officials who champion the Latino community, unifying our efforts to demonstrate our collective strength and positive economic impact in our city and state.

Empowerment

UNIDOS empowers our community to seek for equal participation in construction projects and provides support for the industry as needed.

Advocacy

UNIDOS champions the inclusion and support of Latino contractors and professional services professionals within the construction industry.

Partnerships

UNIDOS builds partnerships with industry stakeholders who complement and support our mission, goals, and strategies. This includes collaborations with private and public entities, other contractors, professional services firms, and industry support services.

Introduction to the board and founders

Chicago UNIDOS in Construction is composed of experienced industry professionals and entrepreneurial leaders who are seeking a competitive edge in inclusion and participation within the construction industry.

Please take a moment to learn about our Executive Director, Board members, and Founding Members.

Our board

Juan Calahorrano

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Visionary leader with over 15 years of experience in the construction sector, a distinguished educator, and an advocate for equitable opportunities for Latino contractors across Chicago.
JLC & Associates | President

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Claudette Soto

BOARD PRESIDENT
Cultivator of untapped potential with decades of experience in construction management, specializing in serving clients and communities of color through equitable procurement and impactful development.
baso | President

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Cristina Beran

BOARD VICE PRESIDENT
A trailblazing leader in the electrical contracting industry, recognized for her commitment to diversity, mentorship and excellence in low voltage and technology systems across Chicagoland.
CVADA | President

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