Reimagining Main Street

With the assistance of Advisor Marilyn Roach, Smita Chutke established her brand and launched her universal meat and veggie blends for everyday cooking. Her goal was to simplify the process of using numerous spices in soups, lentils, rubs, or as marinades. Smita also offers farm-to-table dinners, private dining services, and cooking classes and collaborates with many local chefs, farmers, and artisans. Advisor Roach assisted Smita with business planning, financing, appropriate licensing, and basic start-up steps. According to Smita, “Spice doesn't mean spicy; it is just a means to flavor your food if used in the right way. Cooking is not just about learning recipes or techniques, but also an emotion you transfer to your food."

Dr. Jennifer Sarsland returned home after dental school and went to work at an established dental clinic. A short time later, she had the opportunity to become a partner, and they looked to expand into a new location. With the help of the ND SBDC, Prairie Dental secured the funding needed to renovate a vacant medical clinic space into their new offices. "I would recommend the ND SBDC services to other aspiring entrepreneurs," stated Dr. Sarsland.

Women Owned Businesses and Entrepreneurs accessed Ohio SBDC Advising and Training in 2022. This is more than the total number of clients in 2018.

Rebecca Britton knew precisely where to go for help when she started her business, Endeavor Industries. Endeavor Industries is a third-party logistics company focusing on Amazon prep service, Amazon account management, or any other type of e-commerce fulfillment channel. Even though Britton was an experienced business owner, she knew the SBDC could provide resources she might not otherwise have access to.

Karissa Yoakum took advantage of the various services offered through the Oregon SBDCs, including classes, working with the business advisers on her business plan, and accessing startup funding. Her patient determination and passion for starting a children's salon that celebrates diversity and neurodiversity while focusing on “Inspiring Self-Love, One Haircut at a Time,” helped her achieve her goals. She is now the proud owner of her inclusive children's hair salon in the Salem-Keizer area, specializing in haircuts, braiding, and styling!“[My advisers] were able to recommend organizations who fund small businesses, which led to my securing my startup loan,” Karissa said. “They genuinely care and want to see small businesses flourish.”