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Wisconsin's construction industry directly contributes more than $21 billion to state GDP, or roughly 4.6% of total state output. The sector outpaced national construction job growth in 2025, and specialty trade contractors, including mechanical, electrical, plumbing, roofing, and HVAC, make up the majority of activity, supported by strong workforce participation and one of the country's most active commercial construction pipelines.
Wisconsin has roughly 16,200 construction establishments, ranging from solo trade operators to large general contractors, with the bulk concentrated in Milwaukee, Madison, the Fox Valley, and Green Bay.
Most Wisconsin construction and trades transactions fall within the lower middle market, with valuations driven by recurring service revenue, contract backlog, equipment value, crew retention, and customer concentration.
Wisconsin offers a combination of strong workforce fundamentals, sustained project demand, and favorable industry conditions, making local construction and trades businesses highly desirable to strategic acquirers and private equity buyers building service platforms in the Midwest.
Wisconsin construction apprenticeship enrollment grew nearly 50% from 2016 to 2024, supported by joint union and employer training programs, and ABC has ranked Wisconsin among the top states for construction workforce development. For buyers, that translates into less hiring risk after closing.
State capital investment of more than $4 billion, ongoing federal infrastructure spending, and a wave of industrial, logistics, and data center projects are sustaining demand for general contractors and specialty trades across the state.
Specialty trade contractors, mechanical, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, roofing, and concrete, account for the majority of Wisconsin construction employment and consistently attract premium valuations from buyers focused on recurring service revenue and field operations leverage.
Testimonials
" After a previous deal fell through, we were in a state of uncertainty. Engaging Anthony Waite and Sunbelt to sell our business was a decision that brought us immense relief. We realized we needed to hire someone with experience and resources to continue our plans to sell our business and retire..."
" Working with the team at Sunbelt made selling my business a smooth and straightforward experience. They took care of the heavy lifting, allowing me to stay focused on running and maintaining the strength of my business throughout the process "
" We are so pleased with Sunbelt! Anthony and Jim were incredibly helpful and knowledgeable. They patiently answered all our questions and concerns. They provided guidance on how to prepare our business for sale, maximizing its value and appeal to potential buyers... "
" It’s been about a month since we closed on the sale of our business. We worked with Ed at Sunbelt and he made the process as easy and efficient as possible. Things moved along quickly and in no time, he had 3 potential buyers to choose from. He took the time to understand our needs... "
" We had an excellent experience working with Steve Boylan at Sunbelt! The process was fully explained during our initial meetings. We were able to work at our pace. There was no pressure to list with Sunbelt. They did a complete evaluation and gave us three possible listing prices... "
Why Choose Sunbelt Wisconsin
We combine disciplined work ethic with industry insight to deliver strong results for construction and trades owners across Wisconsin.
Our advisors work with urgency, precision, and a solution-focused mindset to move your transaction forward and protect your interests.
We combine disciplined work ethic with industry insight to deliver strong results for technology founders and owners across Wisconsin.
We lead the market with proven strategies, contract-backlog and equipment-aware valuation methods, and a track record of successful exits for general contractors and specialty trade operators.
Our collaborative approach ensures your transition is supported by a full team of experienced advisors—not just one broker.
We’re committed to supporting business owners through every step of the sale, from valuation to closing.
We put your goals first and lead with integrity, transparency, and commitment. Your success is our purpose.
Speak With a Sunbelt Advisor Today
