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America’s SBDCs help make the dream of small business ownership a reality for more Americans — creating jobs and opportunities that build communities throughout the nation.
See how the Virginia SBDC has served its communities.
Local Eats increases sales by 40%
Amy Myer wanted to open her own local food store and restaurant in Fluvanna County, population 26,000, but she needed help figuring out the details. Connecting with Diane Arnold, Central Virginia SBDC Business Counselor, gave her experience, market research, connection to resources, and a trusted thought partner. "She was awesome," Amy said. "She knows her stuff, and she wants to see her people succeed."
VIRGINIA SBDC NETWORK WORKS WITH UNDERSERVED COMMUNITIES
Minority clients represented 30% of all loans reported by the Virginia SBDC Network in 2020.
The food landscape has dramatically shifted and local is now more necessary than ever. Thank you, Virginia SBDC and the ICAP program for your invaluable help in getting us on the right track! And thanks for getting us through the RAMP Accelerator.
The Local Food Network, Founders Dustyn Vallies and Evan Grindes
Adroit Theory Brewing first year of exporting garnered sales of $100,000
The folks at Virginia SBDC's International Business Development (IBD) program did an analysis and worked up a proposal for owner Mark Osborne and the Adroit Theory Brewing team. Then they found themselves on a trade mission to Europe where their unique and bold brand of beer was gaining traction. As Mark and his team continue to push beer boundaries, both here and overseas, they know the Virginia SBDC will be by their side for a dark, wild, and most importantly fun ride.
Binbox's sales tripled when they realized their smart lock helped prevent the spread of COVID
When COVID-19 shut down Binbox, Dan Flynn didn't despair. Instead, he turned to the Virginia's ICAP program and Mason SBDC for guidance in developing a smart locker that people can use with their cell phones to store belongings while attending events. Binbox worked with high profile sports venues to help prevent the spread of COVID with secure, no-contact solutions from Binbox. Flynn adds, "We also received venture funding to increase capacity."
Yak Attack pivots its $6 million business to produce PPE's
When the COVID-19 pandemic arrived, Yak Attack owner Luther Cifers switched production from kayak accessories to Personal Protection Equipment (PPEs). Once in production, Yak Attack provided PPEs at cost. We also donated a lot of PPEs with funds raised through a Go Fund Me campaign," Cifers says. "Michael Duncan, Longwood SBDC Business Analyst, helped us enormously and saved us from making a lot of mistakes. I plan to keep SBDC at the top of my contact list."
Women-owned businesses are served by the Virginia SBDC
Female clients represented 40% of all loans reported by the Virginia SBDC Network in 2020.
