Free enterprise. Fair competition.

The Voice of the
Merit Shop®

We champion a construction industry where contracts are awarded on merit - and where every contractor and craft professional has the opportunity to compete, grow and succeed.

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Our philosophy

Opportunity earned through performance.

The merit shop philosophy protects open competition and rewards contractors based on safety, quality, value and capability - not labor affiliation.

“The right to choose how to compete, whom to hire and how to build.”

Associated Builders and Contractors is a national construction industry trade association representing every specialty across commercial and industrial construction. Through 67 chapters, ABC helps members develop people, win work and deliver that work safely, ethically and profitably.

ABC New Orleans/Bayou brings that mission home to South Louisiana. We connect contractors, subcontractors, suppliers and service providers to the relationships, training, resources and representation that move their businesses forward.

Our work ensures that construction professionals can compete on a level playing field - and that the communities our members build benefit from a skilled workforce, strong safety cultures and responsible employers.

Learn About ABC National
How we serve

One voice. Industry-wide impact.

ABC addresses the challenges no contractor should have to face alone - uniting the industry around practical solutions and a powerful shared voice.

01 / Advocate

Government & Legal Advocacy

Representing merit shop construction before legislative, executive and judicial branches at the local, state and federal levels.

02 / Develop

Education & Workforce

Building the talent pipeline through craft training, apprenticeship, leadership development and industry-recognized credentials.

03 / Protect

Safety & Best Practices

Helping members strengthen jobsite performance with safety education, proven systems, technical resources and shared expertise.

04 / Grow

Business Development

Creating connections, visibility and opportunities through events, recognition programs, member benefits and contractor directories.

24K+ ABC member companies
67 chapters nationwide
75+ years advancing merit
1950
Where the movement began
Built on conviction

Seven contractors. One enduring idea.

ABC began when seven contractors gathered in Baltimore, Maryland, united by the belief that construction projects should be awarded to the most qualified and responsible bidder. Their courage sparked a movement that helped establish ABC as a leading voice for America's business community and the merit shop construction industry.

Today, ABC carries that vision forward through:

  • Government Representation
  • Legal Advocacy
  • Communications & Technology
  • Awards & Recognition
  • Employee Benefits
  • Industry Best Practices

Build your people. Strengthen your business.

Join the contractors and industry partners shaping the future of merit shop construction in Greater New Orleans and the Bayou Region.

Start Your Membership Journey