Reimagining Main Street

Lauren Gowins left a toxic work environment with dreams of creating a new kind of marketing company. The Alabama SBDC helped lay the foundation of what would become a thriving agency representing a wide variety of businesses. “My SBDC advisors have given me the tools and the confidence to grow my business. I am very grateful that this organization has been with me every step of the way. I can always reach out to the SBDC for assistance.” said Gowins. The Bold team propels companies to be their boldest, most authentic selves to connect to their audience giving companies the fuel to make an impact in the community. Bold believes a business’s potential lies in authentic human connections. In 2022, they launched the Bold Impact Initiative: Every year Bold will partner with a local non-profit on a creative campaign that aids in the organization's fundraising or brand awareness.

Josie James Co’s owner, Desiree Schnell, had an idea for expansion that she made a reality by spending time learning, planning, and working towards her goal. Josie James supports other local small businesses by selling their products in her store. Her boutique is lovely shop offering sizes S-3XL and its social media accounts are delightful. Desiree’s authenticity and kindness show through everything she does, including her product selection.

Collin Whittington's ideal customer is someone like himself – an outdoor enthusiast age 18 to 28.  Ideal for road tripping, car camping, and more, his product is a low-cost multipurpose insert for SUVs that can serve as a sleeping platform, fold-out table, or storage. Field testing of the “Hatchpack” prototype began in 2022. The Greenwood native built the first version for his own use, then got requests for more. He went to the UA-Fort Smith ASBTDC and received help with writing a business plan, forming a company, and branding. Whittington was accepted into the Greenhouse Outdoor Recreation Program (GORP) and moved to Fayetteville, where he began consulting with the UA Fayetteville ASBTDC on scaling up the business, now called Morii.

In Earn and Trade's case, the entrepreneurs attended a six-week training program at the UC Irvine office SBDC, where they learned from angel investors how to establish their business, network and prepare for funding. Earn and Trade received the $10,000 grant in August, which they plan to use to fund forays into new markets and grow their footprint.  “I found the six-week training program – which went over everything, including the basics of structuring a successful tech company all the way to how to pitch investors for funding – very beneficial since the program directors were highly qualified, and both were executives at successful companies. The SBDC is a great place to grow regardless of how far you are in terms of progress."

Central CA SBDC Network's 2022 Small Business of the Year Awards Ceremony recognizes small business owners and individuals who have made a great impact in the small business community.