About

Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) is a national trade association that brings together nearly 21,000 chapter members from the construction industry. With roots in the merit shop philosophy, ABC and its 69 chapters are dedicated to helping members grow their teams, secure work, and complete projects with a focus on safety, ethics, profitability, and contributing to the communities where they operate. ABC members encompass a wide range of specialties within the U.S. construction industry, with a strong presence in industrial and commercial projects.

ABC’s story began in 1950, when seven contractors met in Baltimore, Maryland. They shared a simple but powerful belief: that construction contracts should be awarded based on merit to the most qualified and responsible low bidders. This belief inspired the creation of ABC and helped it become one of the fastest-growing associations in the United States. The courage and dedication of those seven pioneers helped establish ABC as a leading organization representing the business community and the merit shop construction industry. Today, ABC continues to champion those same values, bringing together professionals who strive for excellence and fairness in the construction industry.