In a post-DEI world, how can woman- and minority-owned construction firms retain a foothold? Barb Lau’s St. Paul-based advocacy organization connects smaller firms with larger ones seeking subcontractors. It also provides strategic advice to its small-business members. Woman-owned businesses remain the core of the association’s 250-plus membership, but it now advocates for Minnesota construction businesses of all sizes and structures. With DEI initiatives and federal disadvantaged-business programs under stress, “we will be making sure that woman- and minority-owned businesses are seen as great contractors,” Lau says. “It’s a matter of helping them pivot their messaging.”