SOUTH CAROLINA SMALL BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT CENTERS
2019 annual REPORT REPO RT
Who we are
South Carolina Small Business Development by Centers regionby Region South Carolina Small Business Centers Development Gr
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Winthrop Region
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Florence Myrtle Beach Rock Hill Georgetown*
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Saluda
Marion Florence
Sumter
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Clemson Greenville Spartanburg Greenwood
Laurens
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Clemson Region
Lancaster
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Anderson
Chester
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Union
Calhoun
Aiken
Williamsburg
Clarendon
Georgetown Orangeburg Barnwell
Berkeley
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Bamberg
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Allendale Colleton
SC State Region Orangeburg Walterboro*
*Part-time Satellite Center
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Hampton Charleston
Jasper
Beaufort
USC Region
Aiken Beaufort Charleston North Charleston Columbia Hilton Head Newberry Sumter Lexington*
HE SOUTH CAROLINA Small Business Development Centers (SC SBDC) advances the state’s economic development by providing entrepreneurs no-fee consulting services, affordable training programs and access to an array of valuable resources. The SC SBDC operates as a cohesive network, offering clients at every stage of the business life-cycle (from pre-venture and early-stage to established and mature) confidential access to the combined wisdom of about 50 professionals located in 20 centers throughout the state’s 46 counties. This collaborative approach establishes the SC SBDC as the preeminent provider of essential consulting services including business and strategic plan development, cash flow management, access to capital, loan packaging, diversification strategies, marketing/promotion and succession planning, to name a few. Underpinning these core competencies, the SC SBDC operates specialty programs fostering exporting, technology commercialization, government contracting and manufacturing.
Thank you to our host universities.
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CONTENTS 1 2 3 5 6
Michele Abraham, State Director, SC SBDC Bobby Hitt, Secretary of Commerce, SC DOC
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Dr. Barbara Adams, SC SBDC Consortium Chair
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Bernita Platt, 2019 State Star Interview with Senator Lindsey Graham
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Greenwood & Lander University Business College Connection Program Third Annual StandOUT Symposium SBDC Celebrates 40th Anniversary 2019 Milestones Client Success Stories
In appreciation of Frank L. Roddy for his leadership and support in the creation of the SC Small Business Development Centers
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Message from s c s b d c S TAT E d i r e c t o r
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michele abraham
ORTY YEARS AGO, the South Carolina Small Business Development Centers (SC SBDC) network was formed with the understanding that through providing business consulting and educational programs, we could help small businesses succeed. Since that time in 1979, our Centers have helped hundreds of thousands of entrepreneurs pursue their dreams of entrepreneurship, cultivate and grow communitybased businesses and enrich the state’s economy. Just as our forty-year story (see article on page 8) chronicles the commitment of our federal and state policymakers, university hosts, private and public sector partners, SC SBDC consultants and our grateful clients; this Annual Report chronicles an extraordinary year. I hope you will take some time to peruse the stories about our clients’ successes, new initiatives and services introduced and also special awards and recognition of the SC SBDC in 2019. In 2019, our 20 Centers served more than 5,726 clients in a variety of industries and captured $64.6 million in capital that enabled businesses to start and expand. Combined, we helped our clients create and retain 1,395 jobs which, in turn, helped stimulate the state’s economy. Every number in these statistics tells a story all its own: a business that received the guidance it needed to operate or market more effectively, obtain the capital required to relocate to a larger facility, hire employees grateful for the opportunity, expand into government contracting or exporting or become engaged in sustaining the local community. In some ways it is hard to believe that our organization has been serving South Carolina’s entrepreneurs for 40 years. On the other hand, our valiant mission of driving economic impact by helping small businesses succeed inspires our staff to come to work each day knowing they are making a real difference in the lives of those they serve. We are fortunate to be able to see the outcome of our efforts and to know we are helping to advance our state’s economy.
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Michele Abraham State Director SC Small Business Development Centers
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Message from the S e c r e ta r y o f C o m m e r c e
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bobby hitt EAR SOUTH CAROLINA Small Business Development Centers,
Vince Lombardi once said, “Individual commitment to a group effort--that is what makes a team work, a company work, a society work, a civilization work.� Economic development is a team effort. We all have our individual roles in our communities, but we are all a part of Team South Carolina. One of the key organizations that S.C. Commerce partners with is the South Carolina Small Business Development Centers (SC SBDC). Together, we’ve cultivated a positive environment where businesses can hit the ground running and find success within our borders. For years, the SC SBDC has continued to expand and enhance the services provided, in order to meet the needs of the small business community. With a dedicated presence in every county in our state, this organization serves the business community with integrity, commitment and professionalism. As the boots-on-the-ground for S.C. Commerce, the SC SBDC assists small and medium-sized enterprises statewide with a variety of services ranging from business startup coaching through more specialized, in-depth consulting for well-established companies trying to grow to the next level. The partnership between S.C. Commerce and the SC SBDC has proven successful. In 2019, support from the SC SBDC expanded to every corner of the Palmetto State, assisting 3,534 clients with counseling and 2,192 with training. Congratulations to the SC SBDC for what you do for this state and the people in it. Whether seen or unseen, the SC SBDC has made an incredible impact on our business community, and we look forward to continuing to work together and find innovative ways to meet the evolving needs of the small business community. After all, working together is what makes Sincerely, South Carolina just right for business.
Robert M. Hitt III Secretary of Commerce SC Department of Commerce
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message from sc sbdc Consortium Chair
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dr. barbara adams
HIS YEAR MARKS my third year serving as the SC SBDC Consortium Chair, and I am as honored and gratified today to serve in this position as I was on my first day in this role. I have been affiliated with the SC SBDC network for 16 years and am very proud to have witnessed the incredible accomplishments that the organization achieved in 2019. The SC SBDC is a powerhouse of expertise. With the help of these professionals, small businesses are transforming innovation into sales, creating jobs and identifying new market opportunities. This network stands apart by building lasting relationships with rural, urban and suburban communities and investing in their growth. Every day, dedicated consultants help business owners identify opportunities, meet challenges, manage growth and plan for a bright and sustainable future. v Reaching into their communities, SC SBDC consultants develop programs and services designed to embolden entrepreneurs, enrich communities and cultivate flourishing Main Streets from the Upstate to the Lowcountry and townships in between. Here in the SC State Region, the SBDC team is offering new services to farmers and other rural enterprises that are contributing to their growth. Much is expected of our consultants in the 20 centers across the state, and I am proud to say that day in, day out they steadfastly deliver. Please join me in celebrating the passion and dedication of these professionals whose service enables small businesses to succeed in such a dynamic economic landscape‌and to each of you who advocate on behalf of small businesses, the engines of South Carolina’s economy.
Sincerely,
Barbara L. Adams, Ph.D., CPA Dean & Professor of Accounting SC State University
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state advisory board Rachelle Jamerson-Holmes, Board Chair, Owner, Thee Matriarch Bed and Breakfast Jim Rohrer, Vice-Chair, Senior Credit Team Lead, TD Bank April Simpkins, President, HRS&S Consulting LLC Ashely Teasdel, Director of Business Services Division, SC Department of Commerce Courtney T. R. Furman, President, Furman Architects Cynthia Blair, Blair Cato Pickren Casterline, LLC Douglas Lineberry, Burr & Forman Frank Knapp, President & CEO, SC Small Business Chamber Garold Breit, Principal, Breit Ideas, LLC Jason Premo, President & CEO, Premo Ventures JoLee Gudmundson, President & Owner, Gudmundson Consulting Neil Rashley, Senior Vice President and Counsel, SC Bankers Association Ray Reich, Downtown Development Manager, City of Florence R. Cal Bruner Jr., Realtor, Century 21 The Moore Group Steve Bailey, CEO & Chairman, Merus Refreshment Service Honorary member, Gregg White, District Director, Small Business Administration
in 2019 the sc sbdc helped Increase
Create & Retain
1,396 Jobs
Start
200
New Businesses
5,726 Clients
$31.2M Sales
$64.6M in Capital Formation
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named 2019 state star M
YRTLE BEACH AREA BUSINESS consultant Bernita Platt was selected as the 2019 South Carolina State Star. This noteworthy achievement is based on her exemplary performance, contributions to local economic development and outstanding service to the SC SBDC. Platt began working as a part-time consultant for the SC SBDC in 2007 while she was in graduate school and went on to become a full-time consultant in 2014, serving nearly 400 clients since her transition five years ago. Among her many accomplishments, Platt worked with fellow business consultant Janet Graham to create “Business Basics,� an interactive, introductory workshop geared toward preventure and startup businesses. For this endeavor, State Director Michele Abraham awarded Platt the SC SBDC PRISM award which recognizes outstanding consultants who are helping the SC SBDC fulfill its mission through innovative programs, a commitment to clients and teamwork.
Thank you to our sponsors.
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SC SBDC STATE DIRECTOR MICHELE ABRAHAM INTERVIEWS SENATOR LINDSEY GRAHAM An Insightful Discussion About the Impact of Small Businesses on the State’s Economy
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HIS PAST FALL the SC SBDC posted online a video that captures State Director Michele Abraham interviewing U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina) about the state of small businesses in South Carolina and the impact they make on the state’s economy. “I was honored to be granted this opportunity to interview Senator Graham,” said Abraham. “He was very generous with his time and provided insightful feedback. Since he is the son of small business owners he offers a compelling view on the advantages and challenges of being an entrepreneur.”
In the video, Senator Graham says he has personally experienced the challenges facing small business owners. “When I was growing up my dad owned a restaurant, a bar and a liquor store. You get up every day and go to work; if you don’t go to work you don’t get paid. You can’t afford to get sick. That’s small business.”
“Small businesses are a force multiplier,” said Graham. “The SC SBDC allows a small business to tap into the expertise they otherwise cannot afford. The big companies have in-house services. Small businesses have the SC SBDC,” said Graham. Abraham said that South Carolina is fortunate to have leaders like Senator Graham who recognize the importance of small business, which represents about 70 percent of SC jobs. The video is available on YouTube and the SC SBDC website.
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Greenwood Area sbdc & Lander University Business-College Connection Program Innovative Initiative Benefits Small Business Owners and University Students
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N 2018, WHEN AREA MANAGER and business consultant Ben Calhoun moved to Greenwood, he noticed the county was home to several notable institutions of higher learning and up-and-coming small businesses. “This inspired me to launch the Business-College Connection Program (BCCP), an initiative designed to provide students real-world experience and business owners with insight from people with their pulse on the latest trends.” “In January 2019, I distributed a prospectus asking business owners to identify any challenges they were facing and college educators to provide their areas of expertise along with descriptions of courses they taught,” Calhoun said. “From the applications I received I paired SBDC client Piper Buck with the Digital Marketing course led by Dr. Cherie Rains, assistant marketing professor with Lander University.” The program was officially launched the fall semester of 2019. Students of Rains’ Digital Marketing course learned that in lieu of a conventional class structure, they would be working in teams to meet the needs of an actual client.
Julie Schlageter, a co-owner of designer handbag brand Piper Buck, said she saw the BCCP as an opportunity to not only receive much needed insight but to also offer college students a ‘real-world’ scenario with practical applications. When asked if they preferred the BCCP format over a traditional classroom structure, students were unanimous with their praise. “I learned things that will have valuable applications after graduation,” said BCCP student participant Beverly Augustine. The owners of Piper Buck also hailed the program. “The students showed us the importance of using social media to tell clients our backstory and that for our digital marketing strategy to succeed we had to be more spontaneous and less structured with our approach.” Calhoun’s long-term vision for the program is to include students, businesses and colleges from Greenwood, Laurens, Edgefield, Abbeville, McCormick and Saluda counties in an annual competition.
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THIRD ANNUAL STANDOUT SYMPOSIUM ATTRACTS RECORD CROWD T
HE THIRD ANNUAL StandOUT business symposium held September 11, 2019 at the University Center Greenville Auditorium was a resounding success. Thanks to the positive momentum generated from the previous years’ events, the venue was at capacity, with more than 85 attendees vying for seats. The symposium was conceived and organized by SC SBDC Government Contracting Consultant Sherry Pittinger. Other vital members of the planning and execution team included Clemson Region Office Manager Leslea Gass, Greenville SBDC Area Manager Earl Gregorich and Greenville SBDC Consultant Kostas Ioannidis. The one-day event, designed specifically for Woman- and/or Minority-Owned business owners, featured a robust agenda addressing topics ranging from Certification Programs and Intellectual Property to Effective Leadership and Creating a Capabilities Statement. Attendees were provided an opportunity to network during the hosted lunch. Helping to underwrite the cost of the symposium was an impressive roster of sponsors including JCC Contractors, Government Marketplace, Perceptive Recruiting, Appalachian Development Corporation, Bank of Travelers Rest, Entrepreneur Acumen, Blue Eye Soft, All About Aire and Carolina Foothills Federal Credit Union.
According to Pittinger, StandOUT is becoming a signature event attracting entrepreneurs interested in competing for government contracts. “By obtaining a certification, woman- and minority-owned businesses are ideally positioned to tap into the multibillion dollar government contracting market,” said Pittinger. “The goal of StandOUT is to help attendees adeptly navigate the certification process and, once obtained, leverage the opportunities exclusively available to them.” The StandOUT 2019 Symposium received rave reviews from attendees. “StandOUT was one of the most amazing events of my career. It gave me the opportunity to make connections that will enable me to take my business to an entirely higher level,” said Sonja Wilson, a symposium attendee and featured speaker. StandOUT 2020 will be held September 16 at the same location. Pittinger says that the 4th annual symposium will feature speakers from the SC State Procurement office, SBA and the South Carolina Department of Transportation. “Each year I ensure the agenda features fresh, relevant content to encourage repeat attendance,” she said.
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South Carolina
SBDC Network Celebrates
years of Helping Small Businesses Page 9
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HE YEAR 2019 marked the South Carolina Small Business Development Centers (SC SBDC) network’s 40th year of helping the state’s small businesses grow and succeed. As the premier statewide provider of entrepreneurial and business development services, the SC SBDC plays a vital role in South Carolina’s economic development by assisting entrepreneurs at every stage of the business life cycle.
an auspicious beginning In the late 1970s, the United States Congress recognized the importance of small business growth to the nation’s economy and the idea for SBDCs evolved. After launching the initial program, South Carolina was among the next 15 states to be selected for the national program in 1979.
frank l. roddey
During his tenure in the South Carolina senate, Senator Frank L. Roddey of Lancaster County collaborated with business school deans from Clemson, SC State, UofSC and Winthrop universities to form a Small Business Development Center in South Carolina. Because of Senator Roddey’s advocacy and tireless work to promote small business within South Carolina, in 1980 the network was named the Frank L. Roddey Small Business Development Centers. While the network was rebranded in 2012, Senator Roddey’s influence is still greatly appreciated today by all involved with the SC SBDC.
economic impact
Since inception the SC SBDC has assisted 150,000 emerging and growing businesses. In the past five years alone it
contributed to:
a network of partners
To provide a range of well-rounded, complimentary services, the SC SBDC partners with other small business service organizations such as the SC Departments of Commerce and Transportation, Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP), SC Launch, USDA, SBA, SCORE, lenders, city and county agencies and local Chambers of Commerce.
an expanding mission Over the years the SC SBDC mission has expanded and adapted to meet the needs of the state’s small/ medium-size businesses. Area Centers have gone from offering basic business planning and management to website development, building e-commerce capacity, facilitating exporting and assisting with government contracting and technology commercialization.
PROGRAM FUNDING Like other SBDCs across the nation, South Carolina’s program is funded by Congress and administered by the SBA. This matching grant allows both financial and in-kind contributions from partners including state and local governments, institutions of higher learning, private enterprise and economic development organizations.
6,200 jobs created and retained 916 business starts received consulting 22,300 entrepreneurs and training services in government $1.5 billion contracts $284 million in capital investments Page 10
sc sbdc milestones S
SC SBDC Client Extremiti3D Honored at the America’s SBDC Showcase in Washington, DC
February
C SBDC CLIENT Extremiti3D was honored at the America’s SBDC fifth annual 2019 Client Showcase and Reception on Tuesday, February 12th on Capitol Hill. The event recognized 11 companies from across the nation for their achievements and was attended by SBDC leaders, advisors, clients, partners and stakeholders. U.S. Representative Steve Chabot (R-Ohio), Ranking Member of the Committee on Small Business, addressed the reception guests. U.S. Representative Ralph Norman (R-SC) also attended the event as did other South Carolina delegates and staff.
“Through Jim’s guidance and experience, we were able to win government-backed SBIR contracts and SC Launch grants and loans, providing funding to help us research and refine the business.” Barry Hand, CEO, Extremiti3D
May
Beaufort Area SBDC is named State and Southeast Regional SBDC of the Year Karen Jenkins, Boyd & Nichole Johnson, Srikanth Kodeboyina and Hemalata Patel recognized by the SBA for advancing the small business community
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OUR SC SBDC clients were recognized by the U.S. Small Business Administration-South Carolina District Office (SBA) for outstanding achievements in advancing the needs of small businesses. The awards were presented in a ceremony honoring National Small Business Week held May 1st at the Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center.
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SC SBDC State Director Michele Abraham Selected to Chair the America’s SBDC Board of Directors
September
For the second year in a row, SC SBDC client Thee Matriarch Bed & Breakfast won People’s Choice for their unique sweet tea recipe
S
C SBDC CLIENT and State Advisory Board Chair Rachelle Jamerson-Holmes, right, serves her award-winning Thee Matriarch Bed & Breakfast Rachelle’s Island World Famous Tea during the 2019 Summerville Sweet Tea Festival
“Anyone who has a vision can usually get support from friends and family. But when it comes to best business practices, I received that from the SBDC over the years.” Rachelle Jamerson-Holmes, Owner/Operator of Thee Matriarch Bed & Breakfast SC SBDC Advisory Board Chair
November
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Tom George Joins SC SBDC as Winthrop Region Director
EORGE SAID THAT as the new Winthrop Region Director he has the following priorities: (1) develop marketing initiatives to increase awareness of the Winthrop Region’s services, (2) advance economic development within his region by working with local chambers of commerce, economic development agencies and business associations, (3) continue providing clients with highquality tools and resources they need to succeed and (4) pursue professional development opportunities for his staff so that they may better assist clients.
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Rock Hill Area SBDC Client - bakers-buzzin.com
Bakers Buzzin’
children. love. cooking. Andrew Fisher is passionate about his business, Bakers Buzzin’, an amazingly fun children’s cooking studio in the heart of Fort Mill and Tega Cay. Before opening his unique venue, Fisher was a compliance manager at Wells Fargo. But his dream was calling. Industry: Children’s Cooking School “I wanted to use cooking to teach children teamwork, Challenge: The client initially requested self-expression and life skills,” Fisher said. “We are assistance with building a business plan not a culinary institute, but we do show children that and applying for funding. cooking is fun, interesting and exciting.” Approach: Reviewed business plans, financial projections and ensured that In 2013, when Fisher needed to create a business plan everything was in order to apply for and apply for funding, he visited the Rock Hill Area funding. Provided marketing strategies SBDC, where business consultant Forrest Norman that were designed to generate helped him assemble a lending packet and secure his awareness for this innovative idea. first loan. Results: • Total Annual Sales: $175,000 Once the business was launched, the SC SBDC • Capital Formation: $130,000 continued to follow-up with Fisher to monitor his • Jobs Created: 7 part-time progress and to make recommendations on social • Sales Increase: $175,000 media platforms, marketing and other forms of advertising. Fisher, likewise, contacted the SC SBDC whenever he considered new growth avenues for Bakers Buzzin’. Over the next several years, Bakers Buzzin’ grew tremendously, posting a 60 percent increase in sales. “Bakers Buzzin’ attracts enthusiastic customers because it is a unique concept and adapts to changing marketplace dynamics,” said Eduardo Venegas, a consultant with the Rock Hill Area SBDC who joined Forrest Norman in assisting Fisher.
Services Provided: > Business Plan Preparation > Financial Projections > Loan Application Preparation > Social Media/Online Marketing > Access to Resources
So, how do you top a business that has been highly successful for six years? You open a new location. And that is precisely what Fisher is doing. Fisher also is working with his consultant to determine other growth strategies. “I see this business being very successful as they continue to expand their product offerings,” Venegas said. Fisher is justifiably proud of his accomplishments. “Since 2013, we have been encouraging children to be excited about cooking. We love teaching these skills because they will stay with a child for a lifetime.”
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“We have been working with the SBDC at Winthrop University since 2013, before we even opened for business. They were extremely helpful in reviewing our business plan, making suggestions and educating us on financing options and the small business loan process.” Andrew Fisher, Owner/Operatior Bakers Buzzin’
Van Bortel, a 22-year veteran and former Marine Corps First Sergeant, purchased the event rental store in June 2018 from its former owner. Van Bortel had been the company’s general manager since its inception nine years earlier overseeing day-to-day activities. “I had first-hand knowledge to run the company, the only thing standing in my way was finding the money to make Industry: Party Supply Rentals the purchase,” Van Bortel said. Challenge: The client wanted to purchase the company for which he had served as the general After being turned down by two banks, manager for nine years. He possessed the Van Bortel contacted Martin Goodman, a knowledge to run the company but lacked the consultant with the Beaufort Area SBDC. resources to purchase it. “I had worked with Martin for a brief time in Approach: Helped the client prepare financial 2002 and my impression was that he had projections, a business plan and suggested he the knowledge, contacts and determination apply for an SBA loan—which he received. to help make things happen for me,” said Results: Van Bortel. • Jobs Retained: 44 full-time • Annual Sales Increase: $2.5 million “I helped Richard with his business plan, • Sales Increase Percentage: 16% financial projections and suggested he • Capital Funding: $2,835,000 apply for an SBA loan,” Goodman said. Their diligence paid-off when Van Bortel was awarded an SBA loan for $2.5 million through Ameris Bank. This left a $160,000 shortfall which Van Bortel was able to raise through combining personal savings with generous gifts of family and friends. Van Bortel is grateful for Goodman’s assistance. “If not for Martin, I probably would still be tangling with banks trying to find a lender. Instead, I run a dynamic company that employees 44 local residents and is targeted to post a 24 percent increase in profits by the end of 2019.”
amazing event rentals
A sixteen percent profit margin increase is an impressive figure for any small business in today’s economy. What makes this figure even more impressive is that it took Richard Van Bortel, owner of Amazing Event Rentals, only six months to accomplish this feat.
Beaufort Area SBDC Client - amazingeventrentals.com
a very amazing business
Services Provided: > Business Plan Preparation > Financial Projections > Loan Applications > Strategic Planning > Access to Resources
“If not for Martin, I probably would still be tangling with banks trying to find a lender. Instead, I run a dynamic company that employees 44 local residents and is targeted to post a 24 percent increase in profits by the end of 2019.” Richard Van Bortel, Owner Amazing Event Rentals
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Columbia Area SBDC Client - chiefservicesandsecuritycompany.com
Chief Services & Security Solutions, Inc.
A Company Grounded by Enthusiasm, Loyalty and Success. After spending 20 years as a security professional, Tammy Mikels decided that it was time for a new adventure. The result is Chief Services and Security Solutions, Inc., a woman-owned security business she and co-owner Tracy Lamb established in 2016 to provide unarmed/armed security, investigations, security training, video analytics and cyber security. Industry: Security, Investigative Services, Janitorial Challenge: The client needed assistance entering the government contracting arena, obtaining minority and woman-owned business certifications, marketing her business and fortifying company finances. Approach: Explained the government contracting system to the client, helped her solidify all documents required to bid on government contracts and walked-her through the process of obtaining certifications. Results: • Capital Formation: $250,000 • Jobs Created: 194 full-time • Annual Changes in Sales: $1,500,000 • Government Awards: $2,500,000
“I read a lot about minority and womanowned businesses and all the government contracting opportunities available to them,” Mikels said. “I didn’t know for sure if I could do it, but I felt it was worth pursuing.” So Mikels contacted the Columbia Area SBDC where she met PTAC program manager and business consultant Scott Bellows. “Scott sat me down and asked, ‘What makes Chief Services & Security Solutions unique?’ I’m grateful he helped me address that,” Mikels said.
With the support she received from Bellows, Mikels survived the audits required to become a minority business owner and was positioned to begin bidding on state and federal contracts. Mikels then turned her attention to cash flow management and streamlining her accounting systems. For assistance in those disciplines, Bellows referred Mikels to fellow SBDC consultant Earl Gregorich. “When I first started working with Tammy, her primary objectives were obtaining capital and refinancing her debt,” Gregorich said. The financial analysis and review of accounting systems Gregorich performed enabled Mikels to gain a more detailed understanding of the numbers behind her business. The assistance Mikels received from both consultants has enabled her to expand from a two-person operation to a company with more than 194 employees, earnings exceeding $2.4 million and contracts with court rooms, manufacturing facilities, event centers, libraries, football stadiums and other venues. “No matter how tired you are, you’ve got to get out there and keep your boots on the ground.”
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Tammy Mikels, President Chief Services and Security Solutions
Services Provided: > Strategic Positioning > Government Contracting > Marketing > Certifications > Accounting
Industry: Bicycle Wheel and Parts Manufacturing Challenge: The client currently exports to 50 countries and is looking to extend their presence in the international marketplace. Approach: Helped the client create a global expansion plan based on a strategy of selling to three key targets: consumers, local bike shops and distributors. Results: • Capital Formation: $312,000 (since 2014) • SCRA Investment: $200,000 • Jobs Created: 8 full-time, 1 part-time • Annual Sales Percentage Increase: 25%
Three months into the operation, Boyd Bikes began growing dramatically, so Boyd’s wife, Nicole, joined the business. Boyd Bikes initially offered wheels, bike frames, handlebars and other accessories, but the Johnsons realized that their competitive advantage was their handcrafted wheels made out of carbon fiber and alloy. So in 2011, Boyd and Nicole began specializing in bike wheels only.
In addition to shifting their focus, the Boyd’s wanted to expand their business, so they reached out to the Spartanburg Area Small Business Development Center (SBDC) where they met Area Manager and Business Consultant Beth Smith.
Boyd Cycling
Boyd Johnson, a former competitive cyclist, founded Boyd Bikes in 2009 with a mission of producing and selling quality bike products to avid riders in the Greenville area.
Spartanburg Area SBDC Client - boydcycling.com
Big wheels keep on spinning
Services Provided:
“Beth helped us develop marketing and funding strategies and also connected us with the International Trade Administration so we could investigate exporting opportunities.”
> Strategic Planning
In total, Smith devoted more than 91 counseling hours to helping the Johnsons launch and grow Boyd Cycling. “Boyd and Nicole are a prime example of how a leap of faith, coupled with hard work, can pay off,” she said.
> Market Research
> Go-to-Market Strategy > Business Expansion > Exporting
Today Boyd Cycling exports to 50 countries and has received national media coverage, excellent customer reviews and numerous awards. In both 2017 and 2019 the Southeast Region of the SBA recognized Boyd Cycling as the South Carolina Small Business Exporter of the Year. Capitol Hill also has taken notice. In the spring of 2019, the United States Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship honored the company for its contributions to the local economy and named it the Senate Small Business of the Week. “Beth Smith is an amazing woman who exudes energy and excitement. We have had the good fortune to work with her for over 10 years and along the way she has used her wealth of knowledge to help us determine and execute our global sales strategy.” Nicole Johnson, Co-Founder Boyd Cycling
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Charleston Area SBDC Client - oakroadbrewery.com
oak road brewery
For the Love of a Good Beer Friends Ben Bankey, Brian Cox and Brad Mallet founded Oak Road Brewery with a simple love of German-style beer in mind. Officially opened in 2015, Oak Road Brewery was Summerville’s first brewery specializing in micro-batch brews. By March 2017, business was booming, so the partners decided to expand. However, after unsuccessfully seeking funding from several lenders, they contacted Darrell Jones, UofSC Region Director for the SC SBDC and a Business Consultant with the North Charleston Area SBDC. Industry: Brewery Challenge: The client needed to secure capital to expand his business, however his previous loan requests had been denied. Approach: Helped the client develop a solid business plan, updated the owner’s personal financial statements and ran through scenarios likely to be encountered with the loan officer. Suggested the client approach expansion in two phases. Results: • Jobs Created: 4 part-time • Annual Sales Increase: $120,000 • Capital Funding: $140,000
Jones reviewed their business plan, loan package and personal financial statements. Over the course of 25 meetings, the team decided to divide the expansion into two parts and restructure the loan request. “In June, Ben informed me that he had received a letter of commitment from the Bank of South Carolina for the entire amount requested,” said Jones. “That was a great day. It took us three months, but we finally got the needed funding.” The loan was primarily used to purchase additional equipment and to remodel the facility.
Thanks to these enhancements, Oak Road Brewery is seeing an increase in customers and tap room revenue. Their brews have even been recognized in multiple beer competitions and the brewery itself was ranked No. 3 on a Services Provided: list of 2018’s 50 fastest-growing breweries in the U.S.—no other > Business Plan Preparation South Carolina brewery made the list. > Financial Projections Bankey sees a second phase of expansion in Oak Road’s future. > Financial Planning “We will be adding more fermenters and canning our beers this spring,” he said. “In the long term, we hope to secure a production facility.” Bankey offered advice to anyone wanting to start a business. “Business owners can save themselves years of struggling by simply engaging with the SBDC as soon as they have an idea to start a business.”
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“Darrell played a huge role in guiding us through securing funding for our expansion. When we wanted to expand, he encouraged us to go for the ‘base hit’ instead of the ‘home run.’ This approach worked great for us.” Benjamin Bankey, CEO Oak Road Brewery
> Strategic Planning > Business Expansion
Industry: Facilities Support Services; Custodial Services Challenge: Client wanted to bid for government contracts but was unfamiliar with the process or requirements. Approach: Described the government contracting process to the client, ensured the client obtained requisite 8(a) certifications and helped the client develop a proposal for bidding on a contract. Results: • Jobs Created: 4 part-time; 1 full-time • Government Contracts: 2 Awards Totaling $33,000
“The proper upkeep of your business or home is a necessity that keeps your clients and staff comfortable in a safe, clean environment,” said Broadnax. Elite Properties of Charleston has clients throughout the Carolinas including GenPak, Milliken and Active Day Daycare Centers. One client recently endorsed the work of Broadnax’s staff and services. “I have been using Elite Properties for over a year now and they consistently do a great job for our multi-purpose business.”
Broadnax has grown his business because of the help he received from SBDC Procurement Consultant Linda Blanton during the last two years. With Blanton’s assistance, Broadnax was able to secure two government contracts for a total award of $33,000. Blanton provided consultation with Broadnax on 8a certification, designing a business card, obtaining SDVOSB certification, developing a capability statement and securing government contracts.
Elite properties of charleston
In September 2014, Larry Broadnax started Elite Properties of Charleston, a Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned business. Located in Goose Creek, SC, the company currently has nine employees and offers various janitorial services from business offices to rental condos, customizing the exact needs for cleaning or maintaining a property.
Charleston Area SBDC Client
PTAC program assists Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Business prepare for Government Contracts
Services Provided: > Access to Government Contracts > Reviewed Capabilities Statement > Assisted with 8(a) Certification > Access to Resources > Proposal Package Development
Broadnax says that his mission is to provide his clients with the best possible service. “Our team consists of hardworking, trained professionals. We take pride in surpassing the expectations of our customers,” he said. “PTAC helped me immensely,” Broadnax said. “Linda Blanton provided me with guidance in many ways to help me grow my business and how to bid on contracts.” “PTAC helped me immensely. Linda Blanton provided me with guidance on how to grow my business and bid on contracts.” Larry Broadnax, President and CEO Elite Properties of Charleston
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Florence Area SBDC Client
Wireless Helpers Inc.
Cell Phone Entrepreneur Finds His Calling Merrick Harris is an entrepreneur. And a very successful one, at that. But Harris wasn’t always a thriving businessman. Born and reared in Portland, Jamaica, Harris emigrated Industry: Wireless Telecommunications to the United States in 1990, but found the transition to Retailer be daunting. Challenge: Client was looking to expand his business and needed a loan. “My first six months in the US were a nightmare,” Harris said. “I had no car, no job and no friends. It was hard Approach: Initially assisted the for people to understand what I was saying and equally client with his loan application. As the business began to thrive, we worked hard for me to understand what they were saying.” with the client on expansion strategies and marketing tactics. In 1992, when Harris could not find employment, he Results: began researching how to open his own business. • Jobs Created: 17 full-time “I learned about the SC SBDC at the library,” said • Annual Sales Increase: $2,000,000 Harris. “So I went to the Florence Area Center and met business consultants Eddie Watson and Mike Bell.” Thanks to the support Harris received from the SBDC, he was awarded a loan for $13,000 which he used to launch his business. Then, in 2014, he decided to transition into the burgeoning wireless telecommunications industry and opened two stores, one in Lancaster, SC, and the other in Southern Pines, NC. Eventually, Merrick wanted to do business closer to his home in Florence, so he rented two spaces at the nearby Magnolia Mall. With a desire to further expand his business, Harris revisited the Florence Area SBDC, and with their assistance soon received a $177,000 loan which he used to win a contract with Cricket Wireless. By 2015, Harris had opened a store in Rockingham, NC, increased sales by $123,000, and employed six workers.
Services Provided:
> Access to Capital > Loan Applications > Financial Projections > Cash Flow Management > Trend Line Analysis
This success inspired Harris to seek another expansion loan, which he received in the amount of $60,000. Thanks to the various loans Harris had received since first launching his business, his company was growing and thriving. In 2017 alone, he posted an $800,000 increase in sales enabling him to augment his staff by 18 employees. Watson describes Harris as a true entrepreneur. “Merrick Harris succeeded against the odds. He had to learn English when he came to the United States and take a risk to start his own enterprise. He is a self-motivated guy who will do well.”
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“When people ask what do I need to do to start a successful business, I always tell them, you need to go to the SBDC and set an appointment to talk to them about your business needs.” Merrick Harris, President and CEO Wireless Helpers Inc.
While an undergrad student at USC Aiken, Stone took an entrepreneurship class taught by Professor Brent Hoover, a business consultant with the Aiken Area SBDC. Stone, a North Augusta native, had to create a business plan for her final class project and decided to base her plan on the purchasing of a Smallcakes franchise, the business where she was currently working. Industry: Bakery Franchise Challenge: Karli needed assistance refining her business plan and obtaining a loan to purchase the local Smallcakes where she used to work as an employee. Approach: The consultant helped the client buy the business via a commercial loan. Results: • Business Purchased • Total Annual Sales: $53,213 • Sales Increase: $53,213 • Jobs Created: 1 full-time (5 jobs retained)
Two years later, when the owner of Smallcakes in North Augusta wanted to sell her business, Stone dusted off her business plan and turned to the Aiken Area SBDC for help. Consultant Brent Hoover helped Stone polish her business plan, forecast future sales and build a cash flow pro forma. With this assistance, Stone secured a bank loan and shortly thereafter became the owner of Smallcakes in North Augusta.
Hoover said it’s been great witnessing a former student achieve such success. “It is amazing to witness Karli’s journey from student to successful business owner. Her ambition, intelligence and sheer determination make her an excellent client,” said Hoover. Though it happened relatively quickly, Stone’s journey from graduate student to business owner has not been without its challenges. “This has been a long, emotional process. It has not been easy working full time, attending graduate school, and preparing this business venture.”
> Business Licenses
When asked about her plans for the future, Stone said that seeing her business thrive is her first goal.
> Supplemental Marketing Materials
smallcakes of north augusta
For Karli Stone, baking started as a hobby, turned into a passion and is now her career.
Aiken Area SBDC Client
the cupcake lady
Services Provided: > Bookkeeping > Cash-Flow Management > Business Loan Preparation
“I am always brainstorming ways to expand my business,” she said. “I have been given an amazing opportunity and cannot wait to see where it will take me.” Stone said the best part about owning a business is seeing customers’ faces when they pick up their order. “It makes it all worth it,” she said. “Brent Hoover not only was my business consultant, he was my entrepreneurship professor during my undergraduate studies. In both roles, he taught me the necessary tools for developing a small business. Professor Hoover not only encouraged me to move forward with my goals, but he was dedicated to helping me every step of the way.”` Karli Stone, Owner/Operator Smallcakes of North Augusta
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