In 2014, seasoned professionals Ellie and Ardy Sherafati left behind successful careers at large engineering firms to pursue their long-standing dream of entrepreneurship. They launched their own engineering firm, initially securing small contracts with local municipalities. Ellie, driven by a deep commitment to problem-solving and engineering excellence, recognized a critical gap in the market for a women- and minority-owned firm offering both civil and structural engineering services. Her vision focused on delivering cost-effective, high-quality solutions.

Despite their expertise, navigating the government contracting space posed significant challenges as a small WBE/DBE firm. That’s when they turned to the APEX Accelerator for support. APEX’s no-cost services played a vital role in helping the firm strengthen its competitive edge. Through tailored counseling, strategic guidance, and training workshops, Ellie and Ardy gained critical insight into the procurement process, proposal development, and business strategy.

With APEX’s support, they sharpened their bidding approach, expanded their network, and positioned themselves for larger-scale opportunities. Their efforts culminated in a major milestone: securing a $9.9 million IDIQ contract with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. This achievement underscored their growth and the impact of APEX’s hands-on assistance.

Ellie and Ardy’s story illustrates the power of perseverance, vision, and the right support system. Today, their firm continues to thrive and contribute meaningfully to the engineering field, serving as a testament to the transformative potential of APEX’s services.