unleashing
national impact
igniting local
transformation
As a high-tech start-up specializing in real-time asset tracking and security, RSAE Labs faced the challenges of navigating government contracts, expanding operations, and managing risks in a rapidly evolving industry. The company provides container and railway monitoring, along with yard and device management, across ports, transportation infrastructure, manufacturing, and warehousing. Founder and CEO Randall Shepard, a U.S. Air Force veteran, sought expert guidance on business strategy, growth planning, and contracting opportunities to scale RSAE Labs effectively.
"Every start-up needs an independent, unbiased, confidential review of their plans. The Small Business Development Center can help."
Working closely with Florida SBDC at UWF consultant Dr. Len Eichler, Shepard received ongoing business strategy support, planning assistance, and insights into government contracting. The SBDC served as an expert offering confidential, unbiased reviews of RSAE Labs’ growth trajectory and helping the company address critical challenges in scaling a high-tech business. Dr. Eichler built trust and addressed complex questions, including business space and funding needs, for Shepard’s company to more successfully develop and win government contracts.
With support from the Florida SBDC at UWF, RSAE Labs has grown into a multi-location business, providing secure logistics solutions for government agencies, private enterprises, and global organizations such as the Department of Defense, the United Nations, Sony, Nestlé, and Dow. Now deploying its 6th generation Global Sentinel tracking system, RSAE Labs has solidified its role as a leader in cyber-secure global communications, IoT solutions, and advanced smart sensors.
Following in his father's footsteps, Dr. Nicholas Bottaro started his career in the medical field knowing that he wanted to serve his family, patients and the community, in the same way his father did. By treating patients like family and giving them the time and dedication they deserve! However, he recognized the importance of gaining the right expertise and resources to ensure his practice would be successful. Dr. Bottaro was unsure where to begin or how to secure the appropriate funding to launch his practice. That's when he reached out to the Florida SBDC at USF.
"I absolutely love ophthalmology. I had all these grandiose ideas, but I had no idea how to even take the first step. I cannot express enough how the USF SBDC and Brad specifically, how he has helped me to be able to make this dream a reality. We would not be here today without their help. I'm very excited about continuing my relationship with the Florida SBDC."
Dr. Bottaro worked closely with his Florida SBDC at USF consultant, Brad Mix, to develop accurate financial projections and a comprehensive business plan that helped turn his vision into a reality. Together, they formalized his ideas into a strategic and concise plan, laying the groundwork for his practice. Securing funding was a critical step to opening his doors. Brad leveraged his connections at the Bank of Tampa to assist Dr. Bottaro in finding the right financial solutions. This included obtaining a home equity line of credit (HELOC), a private loan to cover practice start-up costs and operating expenses, and a mortgage to purchase a building. Through this tailored support, Dr. Bottaro was able to establish his practice on a strong financial foundation.
With the help of the Florida SBDC at USF, Dr. Bottaro successfully opened his ophthalmology practice, Beatific Vision. Within six months, the practice had met or exceeded most of its financial projections, demonstrating a strong start. When Dr. Bottaro first approached the Florida SBDC, he had a great idea, and with the help of his business consultant, he was able to turn that idea into a reality. In October 2024, Beatific Vision proudly celebrated its one-year anniversary, marking a significant milestone in Dr. Bottaro's journey as a business owner.
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Jeanne Luis identified a strong need for individualized ABA therapy services in South Florida. Still, she faced challenges in scaling her business, managing rapid growth, and effectively reaching and educating families about ABA therapy options. Additionally, she needed support marketing her services and managing her expanding team of therapists.
"With the support of Mark Mungenast and the SBDC at FIU, I was able to connect with resources that have been crucial to our growth. Their guidance has helped us expand our reach, improve our marketing, and ultimately provide better care to the families we serve."
Florida SBDC at FIU business consultant Mark Mungenast provided Jeanne with tailored marketing strategies and tools to enhance outreach. Mark assisted with community engagement efforts, improved marketing materials (flyers and business cards), and supported Jeanne in developing a consistent messaging strategy. The SBDC also connected her with valuable resources like the BizOp Grant from Bank Of America administered by Miami Dade County and supported by Start-Up FIU, which helped her open a new center in Doral. Consultants Kiomara Hidalgo (HR) and Lilian Urbandt (Accounting) further assisted in team management and financial organization.
With the help of the Florida SBDC, she expanded her services across South Florida, reaching families from Key Largo to Coconut Creek. Leveraging the BizOp Grant, she successfully opened a new ABA therapy center in Doral, further increasing access to her services. Her team grew to 25 therapists, including Registered Behavior Technicians (RBTs), Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analysts (BCaBAs), and Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs), all while maintaining a high standard of care. Through enhanced marketing efforts, she increased her visibility and community engagement, driving steady and exponential business growth.
