Catalyst Construction is one of southeastern Wisconsin’s fastest growing construction firms providing construction management and design-build services to the industrial, medical, retail, office education, government, and religious markets.
Situation
Matt Burow founded Catalyst Construction in 2004. As president of a new construction company, Matt knew he was one of many good construction firms in the area. He needed not only an accounting advisor but a true business partner to help grow the business and put Catalyst Construction on the map.
Strategy
Matt said he found that and more when one of his investors referred him to Wipfli’s Construction & Real Estate Practice leader, Partner John Schwab. “John is the king of trying to connect people,” explains Matt. “He has introduced me to many bankers, lawyers, bonding agents, real estate developers, and other professionals that have helped us.” According to Matt, 80 percent of their conversations have nothing to do with accounting. “Instead John is teaching me from the mistakes he has seen other construction businesses make. He is very proactive and truly wants to make sure we’re successful.”
Benefits
Catalyst Construction has experienced phenomenal growth since 2004, from $4 million in revenue that first year to a projected $20 million for fiscal year-end 2009. This growth will be double what it was at fiscal year-end 2008. A remarkable accomplishment at any time, but even more so given the additional challenges that the current economy has brought upon the construction and real estate industry.
