Reimagining Main Street

OF CAPITAL FUNDING SECURED FOR VETERAN-OWNED BUSINESSES IN 2022

During the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, Michael did an internet search for business help in Central New York and found the Onondaga SBDC. During initial conversations, Michael said his goal was to purchase and run his own company. As Michael and the Advisor Mark Pitonzo began exploring opportunities available in the area, they found Eagle Metalcraft, a welding shop that did precision sheet metal fabrications. Advisor Pitonzo helped Michael with a business valuation, a business plan, and financial projections for external funding. Michael states, “[we] have been in lockstep for two years. He has been a mentor and coach and was completely invested in my success. He's been encouraging and supportive in my journey.”

Robert Barfield, a 100% service-disabled veteran, is doing something unique and exciting right on his farm. With the guidance of the ND SBDC, he is making a difference in the Minot region with aquaponics. Robert met with Mary Beth, his ND SBDC advisor, after attending a Boots to a Business training workshop in 2017. While his commercial greenhouse is being built, Robert is starting with a 300-gallon fish tank connected to various filters. Plans are in place to build roughly a 100 ft long by 32 ft wide greenhouse after the concrete is poured in the spring of 2023.  “I would definitely recommend the ND SBDC. Mary Beth gives suggestions but allows me to make a decision for myself; she's always giving pointers," said Robert.

Ohio SBDC supports Veteran-Owned small businesses. From participation in transition assistance training at Wright Patterson to on-the-ground advising when a veteran calls a new community home, Ohio SBDC is proud to support veteran business owners as they seek success. Levi Duncan has found success with the Ohio SBDC at Springfield.

VETERANS RECEIVED OKLAHOMA SBDC SERVICES IN 2022