Is your business positioned to capitalize on one of the largest waves of public construction funding in U.S. history?
Businesses are positioning themselves to capitalize on one of the most ambitious infrastructure plans in U.S. history: The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA). With more than $1.2 trillion in funding rolling out through 2028, the legislation is reshaping roads, bridges, airports, broadband, water systems, and more.
For construction companies, especially those in the Southeast, this isn’t just a short-term boom. It’s a multi-year opportunity to grow, diversify, and establish lasting relationships on public infrastructure projects.
Here’s a look at just a snapshot of what’s flowing into the Southeast:
Mississippi
Receiving an extra $200 million annually in federal infrastructure funding
Louisiana
Over $7 billion, with $4.8 billion for roads and $1 billion for bridges
Georgia
$4.4 billion in new state-level infrastructure spending
Florida
Significant discretionary grants, including $50 million for Orlando International Airport
Kentucky
$4.6 billion total, including $438 million for bridges and $391 million for public transit
What does this mean for construction companies and how can you tap into the opportunities it presents? Here’s how to get in the game:
1. Register with Your State DOT
State Departments of Transportation (DOTs) manage the bulk of infrastructure projects. Get prequalified, monitor bid postings, and subscribe to project alerts.
State DOT Examples:
MDOT (Mississippi)
GDOT (Georgia)
FDOT (Florida)
KYTC (Kentucky)
2. Explore SAM.gov for Federal Opportunities
For projects directly funded by federal agencies, SAM.gov is the go-to. Register your business and set alerts for relevant bids.
3. Get Certified (DBE/MBE/WBE/SBE)
Many projects have participation goals for small or disadvantaged businesses. Certification can unlock access to set-aside contracts and subcontracting opportunities.
4. Watch Grant Announcements
Cities and counties winning RAISE, INFRA, or MEGA grants will soon be seeking contractors. These awards are public, and local governments will need help executing the work.
5. Build Partnerships
For smaller firms or those new to public work, teaming with larger contractors or joining joint ventures is a smart move. Look for partners already active in design-building.
The IIJA has unlocked a decade-long wave of infrastructure work. Much of this work has started, but there are still plenty of opportunities to jump in and create a backlog for years to come. Are you ready to get in the game?
