(Article written by SBA.GOV)

Jeff Anderson, President and Co-Founder of ATEK Distribution, started his business in 2018 after more than 24 years in electrical manufacturing and distribution. Just six years later, ATEK Distribution has seen significant growth through leveraging SBA resources, including official status as a PRIME Contractor with the United States Government.

Prior to starting his entrepreneurial journey, Anderson served as an Officer in the United States Marine Corps, where he attributes learning the value of hard work, integrity, and a commitment to accomplishing the mission. Those tenants serve as the building blocks for ATEK Distribution, where the focus is on finding the right solutions for diverse electrical needs, paired with unmatched customer service. One catalyst for starting ATEK Distribution was the industry need for smaller, family-owned businesses that could work as problem solvers with their customers – taking a flexible approach to a wide range of projects and needs. Community plays a critical role in the mission of ATEK Distribution, where Anderson makes it a priority to support local, and uplift other small businesses.

Located in Minneapolis, MN, ATEK Distribution provides “Made in the USA” products and solutions to help reduce operation costs, and improve the health, safety, and well-being of employees and communities. This is primarily driven by the wholesale distribution of electrical construction materials, including wiring supplies, electrical light fixtures, EV charging stations, light bulbs, and solar and electrical power equipment.

In an industry that is experiencing rapid growth and expansion, ATEK has stayed ahead of the curve through their efforts to be nimble and responsive. This was especially critical during 2020, where after just a couple years in business, there was major disruption in manufacturing and distribution. Anderson was able to pivot and start distributing PPE, which turned a challenge into an opportunity, as ATEK deepened current partnerships, and established new relationships. ATEK Distribution received a COVID EIDL loan and has since recovered from the impacts of the pandemic.

In spring of 2021, Anderson connected with APEX Accelerators, an SBA resource partner, who assisted him in obtaining Service Disabled Veteran Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) certification. SDVOSB certification makes businesses eligible to compete for sole-source and set-aside contracts. At least 5% of all federal contracting dollars each year are set aside for SDVOSB’s, and SBA and APEX Accelerators procurement assistance has played a vital role in ATEK securing several government contracts, and obtaining status as a PRIME U.S. Government contractor. This September, ATEK Distribution secured their place on the GSA schedule.

Alongside contracting technical assistance, Anderson also participated in the 2023 cohort of SBA’s T.H.R.I.V.E Emerging Leaders program. Each year, the Minnesota District Office offers the executive-level training series intended to give ambitious small business leaders a challenging opportunity to accelerate their growth through targeted training. Anderson has a SCORE Mentor, who provides a second opinion on ATEK Distribution’s growth plans. ATEK has also received several SBA Loans to aid and support the expansion of his business.

The future of ATEK Distribution is bright, with overarching goals to continue focusing on government contracting for sustained growth. Anderson shared that the most rewarding part of business ownership is supporting others – whether it be his own staff, or other small businesses.