ABOUT frana companies
WHY NOBODY BUILDS BETTER
How we deliver unmatched satisfaction in the construction industry.
EXPERIENCE THE FRANA ADVANTAGE
BUILDING FOR THE LONG HAUL SINCE 1977
Built on a legacy of 45+ years of hard work, integrity, and dependability, we’ve grown from a family-owned company led by Gary Frana into one of the leading builders of privately financed and government-funded multi-family housing in the Twin Cities—
including over 40,000 multi-family units representing over $5.3 billion in construction volume across the Upper Midwest.
However, what truly sets us apart is our innovative process, long-standing relationships with our people and partners, and the perseverance to exceed client expectations consistently. With 100% of our work volume from repeat clients, unmatched employee retention, and a strong reputation that echoes in our communities, we’ve got what it takes to build for the long haul.
Built on a legacy of 45+ years of hard work, integrity, and dependability, we’ve grown from a family-owned company led by Gary Frana into one of the leading builders of privately financed and government-funded multi-family housing in the Twin Cities—
including over 40,000 multi-family units representing over $5.3 billion in construction volume across the Upper Midwest.
However, what truly sets us apart is our innovative process, long-standing relationships with our people and partners, and the perseverance to exceed client expectations consistently. With 100% of our work volume from repeat clients, unmatched employee retention, and a strong reputation that echoes in our communities, we’ve got what it takes to build for the long haul.
BUILDING FOR THE LONG HAUL SINCE 1977
EXPERIENCE THE FRANA ADVANTAGE
OUR CORE VALUES
WE'RE ALL IN IT TOGETHER
WHAT DRIVES US FORWARD
We believe working together toward one common goal strengthens our company and allows us to exceed client expectations. And we strive to bring an owner’s perspective that ensures every client, partner, subcontractor, vendor, and employee is valued for the unique skills, abilities, and perspectives they bring to the table. Because if there’s anything we know about building success, we’re stronger when we’re all in it together.
LEAD WITH INNOVATION
At our core, we lead with innovation, fueling a powerful drive for progress and groundbreaking solutions that endure the test of time. By continually fostering innovative craftsmanship, we stay ahead of the curve, adapt to ever-changing landscapes, and help our clients bring their unique vision to life. With every step forward, we lead the way in strengthening our community by delivering value for our clients, partners, and employees.
DELIVER LASTING VALUE
Our success is not gauged merely by short-term gains but by our long-term impact on our clients, partners, employees, and the communities we proudly serve. With every step we take, our unwavering dedication to deliver lasting value guides us, igniting a relentless pursuit of excellence that sets a new benchmark for quality, safety, and unmatched client satisfaction in the construction industry.
OUR HISTORY
The growth of Frana Companies over the last several decades is rooted in innovation, diligence, and collaboration.
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BUILDING STRONG SINCE 1977
BUILDING STRONG SINCE 1977
OUR HISTORY
The growth of Frana Companies over the last several decades is rooted in innovation, diligence, and collaboration.
1995
1977
1983
1992
Mike Benedict joins Frana and Sons as a Project Manager.
Frana and Sons is founded in 1977 by Gary Frana. The company begins with smaller projects, averaging 10 to 50 units.
Peter Donnino joins Frana and Sons as a project manager.
Peter Donnino becomes president.
2005
2000
2002
2004
Frana's first general superintendent, Keith Dahlen, retires.
Frana's Wall Manufacturing Plant opens. This is one of the first prefabricated wall and floor manufacturing plants in the Upper Midwest.
Frana takes on self-performed carpentry work.
Gary Frana retires. Peter Donnino becomes CEO.
2023
2006
2014
2022
The Frana Companies Floor Manufacturing Plant opens.
Frana and Sons changes its name to Frana Companies Inc.
Mike Benedict becomes president.
Mike Benedict becomes president and CEO.
HOW WE BUILD FOR THE FUTURE
SUSTAINABILITY IN ACTION: VERDANT
SUSTAINABILITY
The Verdant project in St. Paul, MN was the first multi-family project (82 units) in the Upper Midwest to achieve what some consider the highest sustainability achievable. It also won the 2023 best affordable project from the Passive House Institute U.S. (Phius).
In recent years Frana Companies has worked extensively on various projects with in-depth certifications. The majority of Frana’s multi-family projects implement: LEED, 2020 Enterprise Green Communities, SB2030 and B3 Guidelines, the National Green Building Standards and several other Green initiatives.
With the number of projects Frana builds each year, we continue to work through the checklists and Green requirements offered through MHFA, HUD and other public funding sources. Over half of our current workload requires working through the SB2030 Energy standards and energy modeling process. These projects are challenging when maneuvering through the Green design process. However, based on our experience in the housing market and working through the design process alongside Pat Smith (Sustainable Building Research) we will help the project team make good decisions informed by results, economic impacts, and current strategies.
WE ARE A RECOGNIZED LEADER IN DEVELOPING SAFETY PROTOCOL
PRIORITIZING SAFETY
Over time, we have engineered safety procedures into how we build and manufacture each day. This significantly reduces employee exposure to hazards.
However, to avoid complacency, we are always strengthening our systems by working closely with OSHA. In fact, OSHA has recognized our fall protection programs as a gold standard by sharing our approach with other companies.
We assure our employees and clients that safety is ingrained in every task we undertake. From our carpenters to our CEO, everyone receives extensive training in how to protect themselves and others from unnecessary risk.
WE SPECIALIZE IN:
+ Pre-task planning
+ Pre-employment physicals and drug testing
+ Hiring knowledgable, highly-qualified talent
+ Continuing site inspections
+ Addressing safety in all subcontracts
+ Leading job site orientation for subcontractors
+ Developing emergency response management programs
+ Creating fall protection programs
