Reimagining Main Street

Click Synergy, LLC was originally formed when the owners saw a need for content creation and media guidance for small businesses. They quickly realized that they could use their retail expertise to help other businesses grow and this led them to create a retail incubator: The Shoppes at Coldwater. The Alabama SBDC's Capital Access Team helped them navigate EIDL, PPP, and expansion loans. “I love getting to share with clients and friends that own businesses the greatness that is the SBDC. I look like a hero and they get the help and assistance to take their business to the next level,” says owner Ashley Morrow. Business is booming: They were named Alabama's Emerging Retailer of the Year, and plan to launch a 401k for employees next year.

Number of Alaska SBDC clients who are women

Mrs. IALETAMOLE TUPUOLA was heavily impacted by Covid-19. She decided to invest her last paycheck and some funds that were made available due to the pandemic on a small store in her house. The store was barely earning since it was an old-style type, where customers stand outside to shop. She came to the SBDC late Dec 2021, seeking help in organizing her ideas, figuring out how to properly record her financial reports and business planning. The American Samoa SBDC also help her put together a grant application and was approved for $25,000 Grant from the DOC. With this grant, she is in the process of fixing her store to be available for customers to walk in and shop.

“The SBDC has been a major influence in putting my business package together. I have received lots of help and guidance from lots of people over the years and the patience and help given from the SBDC has been so appreciated.” Lois Monarrez began working with the SBDC in 1994. Her goal was to expand her business to include a second RV Park location in Globe. There have been many challenges over the years but Lois never gave up. The SBDC helped Lois with the project development and planning, preparing the loan financial package and marketing plans. Through it all, Lois pushed through and with the help of the SBDC, she opened her second business location in 2018 and is still growing! Lois never gave up and neither did the SBDC.

Sally Mengel was a first-time business owner when she started Loblolly Creamery in 2011. She views Arkansas SBTDC's consulting, training, and resources like market research as critical to Loblolly's growth and expansion. Mengel has worked with the center at UA Little Rock since Loblolly's early days and continues to consult with the ASBTDC. The maker and distributor of ice cream and other sweet treats added a second retail location in November 2021 and has grown its team to 36 employees.