When Montenegro started their relationship with the Illinois APEX Accelerator (ILPTAC) at College of DuPage (COD) nearly 15 years ago, they probably did not imagine that they would grow so much that the State of Illinois would stop considering them a small business! Montenegro has also received the many certifications to help them: DBE, MBE (City of Chicago, Cook County, CMSDC/NMSDC, State of IL, and State of WI), and they have their eyes on the SBA's 8(a) Business Development Program. What is most impressive regarding the certifications is that Montenegro truly knows how to use them to their advantage! Their phone number is 855-MBE-PAPER, their website has a specific page for listing their certifications, and they use the exact language companies what to hear when looking for a partner to help them meet their diversity goals. Over the years, Montenegro never forgot the guidance they received in the beginning of their contracting journey and throughout. Irma Bates of Montenegro Paper stated, the following regarding, Amber Gardner, PTAC Coordinator.
"PTAC has been our first call for clarification and help in many areas. If it was a government certification, a bid, or even general questions, they have always been prompt and knowledgeable with their responses. They have made us feel that our questions were worth their time. They have excellent, informative seminars and we plan on continuing to educate and train our employees with the many programs that they offer. We appreciate them keeping us informed and guiding Montenegro Paper LTD as we grow."
They have reported over 50 contract awards! More importantly, they continue to keep their advisors engaged. So far, COD's ILPTAC advisors, Rita Haake, Amber Gardner, Tony Rocco (inactive), and James Kleckner (inactive) have assisted Montenegro with solicitation reviews, certification reviews, interpretations of FAR (Federal Acquisition Regulation), bid protests, federal marketing, internship possibilities due to growth, bringing new employees up to speed on all items government, and we are happy to help them handle any further challenges that may arise!
Contact Information
Business Development Center
535 Duane Street, Office 233
Glen Ellyn IL 60137
(630) 942-2600
Email: bdc@cod.edu
Regular Hours of Operation
Monday to Friday: 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Map and Directions