Humble Beginnings
GMA’s corporate vision is rooted in the experiences of its founder, Cornelius Griggs. Raised in the City’s toughest west side neighborhoods, his unconventional childhood included exposure to homelessness, domestic violence, and drug addiction.

Important Mentors and Organizations
Positive relationships with his grandfather, a military man, and participation in community organizations enabled him to overcome adversity and uncomfortable circumstances, while also fostering his interest in math, science, technology, and the military.

Education and Military Service
He attended Chicago State University and honorably served our country during Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom. His dedication and determination earned him the Army Commendation Medal.

Establishing the Mission
Establishing GMA in 2009, Cornelius defined GMA’s overarching mission: Developing people that will transform communities—a call to do good for all types of underserved communities.

Building the Business
As his experience resonated with clients looking to do the same, the firm in its infancy was awarded several important community-based projects such as the Bloom Township Food Pantry. Other early areas of focus included affordable housing and early 
childhood education. 

Giving Back
Cornelius’ gratitude for the organizations and mentors that impacted his life propelled him to place high value on mentorship and education. Today, GMA continues that legacy with participation in several non-profit organizations including the TRIO Program that assists low-income and first-generation students through the education system. 

Continued Service
In 2019, GMA was awarded its first federal project, the C-17 Flight Simulator Facility in Charlotte, North Carolina. As a Veteran-Owned Small Business, GMA is focused on expanding its portfolio of federal work through a business program dedicated to serving the federal government.

Looking to the Future
Today, GMA lives the mission through mentorship of their employees as well as providing job and training opportunities for members of the communities in which they work. They seek work that improves quality of life for underserved communities, increases operational efficiency for the federal government, and provides sustainability for future generations.