This Black-Owned Construction Firm Went From Broke to Billion Dollar Contracts

Founders of C.D. Moody Construction Company

In 1988, C. David Moody, Jr. established C.D. Moody Construction Company, now one of the largest Black-owned construction companies in the US. But he didn't reach the top easily; He built the company from scratch while trying to raise a family, struggling to make ends meet, and even being buried in debt.
Moody, who is a native of Chicago, Illinois, graduated with a degree in psychology at Morehouse College in 1978 and earned a professional degree in architecture at Howard University in 1981. He started working as an architect but left the job when he realized he wanted to become a builder instead.

Starting a new life in Atlanta with his wife, he also found a new job. But when the company went bankrupt, he became broke for 4 years. In 1988, he decided to build his own construction company even though he had to operate their office from his bedroom.

More than three decades later, Moody's company has safely built and completed over 200 commercial projects valued at about $3 billion. Moody has helped in building several iconic landmarks such as the Atlanta History Center, Mercedes Benz Stadium, Braves Stadium, Morehouse Leadership Center, World of Coca-Cola, and the Maynard Jackson International Concourse at Atlanta's Hartsfield-Jackson Airport.

His company has also been a staple on Black Enterprise magazine's "Top 100" list of the largest Black-owned industrial/services companies in the country. The Atlanta Business Chronicle ranks his company as one of Atlanta's Top 25 Commercial Contractors and Top 100 Private Companies.

Along with his success, Moody did not leave behind the community. He founded the C.D. Moody Foundation to provide financial assistance for students who want to venture into construction and entrepreneurship and has so far awarded over 80 individual scholarships.

Moreover, he wanted to build an advocacy center to help treat victims of childhood sex abuse, especially those who are now in adulthood but still struggling with trauma. He understands it himself as he was sexually abused by his babysitter when he was young and he was only able to talk about it after 40 years.

Most recently, Moody joined as a 49% partner on a $650 million mix of affordable and market-rate housing, restaurants, retail, offices, and a performing arts center. He is also set to take on an ownership stake if approved by the board.

For more information about C.D. Moody Construction, visit www.cdmoodyconstruction.com
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