The Journey of Stephanie Ado: From Daycare Owner to Government Contracting Success

In the world of government contracting, the path to success is often paved with uncertainty, resilience, and a willingness to learn. Stephanie Ado, the owner of ACJ Luxury Maintenance and mother of three, embodies this journey. Her transition from running a daycare to establishing a thriving janitorial facility maintenance company that services both government and commercial sectors is an inspiring story of determination and success.

The Start of an Entrepreneurial Journey

Stephanie’s entrepreneurial spirit has always been present. After running a daycare for eight years, she realized it was time for a change. Though she had a passion for government contracting, she struggled to find a way in. The hearsay she encountered—about needing certifications, partnerships, and substantial compliance—left her feeling overwhelmed and underqualified.

However, networking with fellow entrepreneurs proved to be a game-changer. In her conversations, she learned about valuable contracts with state departments and educational institutions. One influential meeting was with a woman who specialized in therapy for children on the spectrum. Through their discussion, Stephanie began to grasp the vast opportunities available in government contracting.

Discovering Government Contracting: The Aha Moment

Stephanie’s "aha moment" came when she attended meetings hosted by the Institute for Veterans and Military Families (IVMF). Here, she connected with women in the construction industry who were thriving, and it ignited a fire within her. She realized that government contracting was not solely about construction; opportunities existed in maintenance and cleaning as well.

Motivated, she began consuming content from Eric, a prominent figure in government contracting. For two years, she immersed herself in his videos, gaining insights and building the courage to jump into the industry seriously. Her turning point was in 2019 when she formalized her cleaning business—initially named Short Hills Luxury Cleaning.

Taking the Leap: Forming ACJ Luxury Maintenance

In September 2019, Stephanie officially launched ACJ Luxury Maintenance, incorporating her children’s initials to symbolize her family’s role in her entrepreneurial mission. The pandemic’s onset in March 2020 could have been a significant setback. Yet, she adapted, using the moment to secure her first major contract in government cleaning services.

Completing a contract for cleaning VA hospitals in New York City not only propelled her business forward financially but also affirmed her belief in her capabilities. The contract amounted to impressively high figures, exceeding her initial expectations.

Navigating Challenges: HR and Compliance

With a rapid team expansion—from just a few members to 40 in a matter of days—Stephanie encountered numerous challenges, particularly with payroll and compliance. The complexities of certified payroll and Human Resources management demanded a steep learning curve. Yet, she rose to the occasion, ensuring everyone understood their responsibilities and the significance of their roles.

Stephanie leveraged her friendships with other cleaning business owners, forming partnerships that enabled her to meet the contract’s demands efficiently. This collaboration underscored the importance of networking, as she was able to deliver results without compromise.

The Power of Networking and Follow-Up

Stephanie’s success can largely be attributed to her persistent networking efforts. Acknowledging the contributions of her contacts through thank-you emails not only solidified relationships but also positioned her company favorably in the eyes of decision-makers. Her meticulous follow-ups demonstrated professionalism while keeping her business top-of-mind for future contracts.

Even when initial contracts ended, Stephanie maintained her focus on leveraging previous successes to secure new opportunities. She constantly updated her Dynamic Small Business Search (DSBS) profile, ensuring that her company stayed visible and competitive.

Opportunities on the Horizon

With the close of the fiscal year approaching, Stephanie is strategically preparing to submit bids for new contracts. The excitement of government contracting is addictive for her, especially when it involves making a meaningful impact on the lives of her employees. By providing sustainable jobs, she allows people to thrive—and herself to see significant financial returns.

Balancing Entrepreneurial Dreams and Family Life

As a mother, Stephanie balances her ambitious business pursuits with parental responsibilities. The support from her husband has been invaluable, allowing her to juggle her business demands with the needs of her children. Her ability to navigate various roles showcases her determination and grit.

Reflecting on Personal Growth

While Stephanie dedicates much of her success to her employees and community, she also acknowledges her personal growth throughout this journey. The experience has reshaped her perspective on business and life, reinforcing her belief in the power of resilience and community support.

Final Thoughts on the Future

Stephanie Ado’s story embodies the ethos of many entrepreneurs in the government contracting space: passion fuels perseverance. With her sights set on future contracts and a deeper understanding of her industry, she remains driven not just by her own success, but by the impact she can have on others. As she continues to cultivate relationships and stay committed to her vision, the sky is the limit for ACJ Luxury Maintenance.