college, and later gaining professional experience in general contracting. For nearly 18 years, he honed his skills working for a small minority- owned business, he eventually recognized the opportunities that presented themselves in Denver and a gap in the industry that he was uniquely positioned to fill. Seeing the lack of opportunities for minority- owned businesses, Jake took a leap of faith, transitioning from working for someone else to building his own company. In the beginning, Gilmore focused on small renovation projects and finishing jobs that Jake had started with his previous employer. With each project, the company demonstrated its capabilities, earned client trust, and established a reputation for quality and reliability. One of the company’s early breakthrough projects involved constructing five preschools, which propelled the company into larger commercial projects. Soon after, Gilmore expanded into federal contracts and on-call projects, securing its place among top- tier general contractors. While Gilmore built its name through hard work and excellence, Jake and Edweena also recognized the importance of leveraging strategic resources to break through systemic industry barriers. They utilized the SBA 8(a) Business Development Program as a catalyst, gaining access to essential training, networking, and contract opportunities that allowed them to scale their business. By combining their own expertise and reputation with the advantages of the program, they positioned Gilmore to compete at higher levels and secure larger, more complex projects. A pivotal moment came when Gilmore partnered on a major $15 million renovation project in Colorado Springs. This opportunity showcased the company’s ability to manage large-scale commercial work, leading to further high-profile projects. Shortly after, the company was awarded a multi-million-dollar airport renovation for United Airlines, a project that significantly increased its visibility and credibility in aviation infrastructure. Building on this momentum, Gilmore took on even more ambitious projects, further cementing its reputation for excellence. One of the company’s most defining achievements was
Jake & Edweena Gilmore. Image: Gilmore Construction
In 1997, Jake and Edweena Gilmore founded Gilmore Construction with a vision that extended far beyond bricks and mortar. They set out to build not just structures, but opportunities— opportunities for underrepresented communities, aspiring entrepreneurs, and for a more inclusive and equitable construction industry. Nearly three decades later, that vision continues to shape the Rocky Mountain region’s environment, reinforcing new standards of excellence, mentorship, and economic empowerment. With a strong commitment to mentorship, workforce development, and community impact, Gilmore is more than a builder, it’s a force for change. Through its strategic leadership, the company has transformed from a small business in the SBA 8(a) Business Development Program to a powerhouse managing $40 million in annual revenue, leading major infrastructure projects across transportation, healthcare, education, and commercial sectors. From Humble Beginnings to Industry Leadership Jake Gilmore’s love for building began long before Gilmore was founded. His early interest in architecture and construction was fueled by a passion for transforming concepts into completed structures. He began working on projects with his family, taking on renovation work during
14 The Acumen
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