Business Details
12 Years
experience
Advocating for Maryland's Construction Industry Excellence
The Maryland Building Industry Association (MBIA) is a leading advocate for the residential construction and remodeling industry in Maryland. Established through the 2014 merger of the Home Builders Association of Maryland and the Maryland National-Capital Building Industry Association, we represent over 1,100 member firms across 22 counties. Our organization champions policies that foster business growth while promoting quality, attainable housing solutions for communities. Through strategic advocacy at local, state, and national levels, we combat restrictive legislation and support initiatives that strengthen the housing market. Our members benefit from extensive networking opportunities, including 100+ annual events and 200+ meetings, as well as access to specialized councils focused on land development, multifamily housing, and professional women in building.We provide critical resources such as job boards, apprenticeship programs, and legislative tracking to keep members informed and competitive. Our commitment to education extends to carpentry training partnerships with institutions like Wor-Wic Community College, addressing workforce development challenges. As a trusted industry voice, we collaborate with government officials to shape housing policy while offering members exclusive discounts and business tools. Our advocacy efforts have directly influenced favorable regulatory outcomes, saving members an estimated $6,200 per housing start through national policy interventions. With a legacy spanning 175 combined years of predecessor organizations, we continue to drive innovation and sustainability in Maryland's construction sector.
Services
Industry Advocacy
Legislative Tracking
Networking Events
Workforce Development
Business Resources
Policy Representation
Training Programs
Member Discounts
Housing Research
Certification Support
Details
- Year established: 2014
Highlights and features
- We advocate for the building industry at local, state, and national government levels
- We offer 100+ annual networking events and 40+ specialized councils for industry professionals
- Our legislative tracking prevents harmful regulations that could increase housing costs
- We provide exclusive member discounts and business development resources
- Our apprenticeship partnerships address critical workforce development challenges
Services
Industry Advocacy
MBIA actively represents construction industry interests before legislative bodies at all government levels. Our dedicated government affairs team analyzes thousands of proposed bills annually, preventing harmful regulations while promoting policies that support housing affordability and business growth. Through direct lobbying efforts, coalition building, and grassroots mobilization, we ensure member voices shape Maryland's housing policies.
Networking Events
We organize over 100 annual industry events including conferences, award ceremonies, and specialized council meetings. These gatherings connect builders, remodelers, and suppliers with peers and potential clients while providing opportunities for professional development and business collaboration through structured networking sessions and social events.
Workforce Development
Our educational initiatives include carpentry training partnerships with community colleges and apprenticeship programs addressing industry workforce shortages. We facilitate skill development through certified training courses and collaborate with educational institutions to create career pathways in construction trades for new entrants and career changers.
Business Resources
Members receive exclusive access to business tools including job boards, marketing resources, and discounted services through our partnership network. We provide operational support through regulatory guidance, contract templates, and best practice recommendations to help members streamline operations and maintain compliance with industry standards.
Certification Support
We facilitate industry-recognized certification programs that enhance professional credibility and business competitiveness. Our certification assistance includes preparation resources, examination coordination, and continuing education requirements tracking to maintain credential validity and demonstrate expertise to clients.
People
Lori Graf
Chief Executive Officer
Lori Graf leads MBIA's strategic operations with over 25 years of experience in industry association management. She oversees advocacy efforts and member services while maintaining relationships with state and national housing organizations.
Alex Andelsman
Government Affairs Manager
Alex Andelsman directs MBIA's legislative initiatives with expertise in Maryland policy frameworks. He monitors regulatory developments and represents member interests before state and local government bodies.
Griffin Benton
VP of Government Affairs
Griffin Benton leads advocacy strategies with deep knowledge of Maryland's construction regulations. He coordinates lobbying efforts and develops policy positions that protect members' business interests.
Questions
What services does MBIA provide for construction professionals?
We offer legislative advocacy, networking events, business resources, workforce development programs, and specialized council memberships to support Maryland's building industry.
How does MBIA influence housing policy in Maryland?
Our government affairs team monitors thousands of bills annually, advocates for favorable policies, and prevents harmful regulations through direct engagement with legislators and coalitions.
Can non-members attend MBIA events?
Most events are exclusive to members, but some public events like housing expos may offer limited non-member participation opportunities.
What educational programs does MBIA offer?
We provide carpentry training partnerships, apprenticeship programs, and continuing education through collaborations with institutions like Wor-Wic Community College.
How can I join the Maryland Building Industry Association?
Visit our website to complete the membership application and gain access to industry resources, networking opportunities, and advocacy support.
