unleashing
national impact
igniting local
transformation
As a new business, Glo faced significant uncertainty in its early stages. Founder Hagan Walker lacked direction on how to establish and grow their company, especially after their product gained unexpected attention. As they scaled, they encountered complex challenges, such as navigating international trade regulations and ensuring compliance with safety certifications in foreign markets like Australia. These obstacles, along with the demands of creating a sustainable and scalable business model, highlighted their need for expert guidance and support.
"(Mississippi SBDC Network's) RISE Center has really been so influential in helping us, as we now have problems that are much more segmented in different areas."
The Mississippi SBDC Network was pivotal in Glo's success by providing comprehensive support from the outset. In the early days, the Mississippi SBDC at MSU center spent hours helping the founders develop their business plans and identify actionable next steps. As Glo expanded, the Mississippi SBDC Network's RISE Center assisted with complex export challenges. As part of RISE Center's International Trade resource, Anthony Cambas leveraged his expertise to help navigate exportation hurdles and compliance requirements. Mississippi SBDC Network's resources and strategic partnerships ensured Glo could overcome local and global challenges.
With Mississippi SBDC Network's guidance, Glo transformed from a classroom project into a thriving international business. Their products are now available in approximately 1,400 retailers across the U.S. and Canada, with distribution in 20 countries and customers in over 60. They have also established meaningful partnerships, such as sponsoring a Glo Pals-themed room in Mississippi's only children's hospital. These achievements not only demonstrate Glo's success but also highlight the vital role Mississippi SBDC Network played in their journey, providing the expertise and connections needed to grow and address challenges at every stage.
Strands of Faith faced several challenges as it sought to establish itself in the highly competitive hair care market. Founder Ameka Coleman identified a gap in the market for products tailored to textured hair, but she also discovered that many mainstream products contained toxic ingredients linked to health issues. As a new entrepreneur transitioning from a personal passion to a business venture, she needed guidance on product development, exporting logistics, financial strategies, and marketing. Navigating these areas while growing her e-commerce business was daunting, particularly as she sought to expand her reach to international markets.
"(Mississippi) SBDC has just been absolutely incredible for my business—on a personal side and on the business side. I absolutely appreciate and am genuinely grateful for the services that the SBDC provides."
The Mississippi SBDC Network, including its dedicated division for supporting growing businesses, the RISE Center at Ole Miss, provided Ameka with essential support to overcome her challenges. The RISE Center connected Ameka with subject matter experts in key areas: Tony Cambas offered expertise in International Trade, Don Calcote provided an in-depth consultation in Financial Analysis, and Kendall Causey provided Digital Transformation strategies. Through these connections, Ameka gained a clearer understanding of exporting processes, improved her financial planning, and enhanced her online presence to reach a broader audience. The comprehensive support from the Mississippi SBDC Network enabled her to address challenges in both operations and marketing, empowering her to scale her business with confidence.
With the guidance and resources of the SBDC, Strands of Faith has grown into a thriving business entering its seventh year. The company successfully expanded its e-commerce operations, strengthened its digital presence, and began navigating the complexities of international trade.
xIn June 2024, Ameka was announced the grand prize winner of the 2024 Good Soil Forum Seed Capital Pitch Competition and walked away with $200,000. The seed capital pitch competition, co-presented by T.D. Jakes Enterprises, Wells Fargo and the Stand Together Foundation, is one of the most generous pitch competitions in the country and there is no equity stake or repayment.
Josh Christian, owner of Oxford Meat Company, faced the challenges many new entrepreneurs encounter when starting a business. Although he was passionate and determined, he needed guidance to create a comprehensive business plan, develop a strong marketing strategy, and secure funding for his venture. Additionally, as a business in a unique town like Oxford, he had to find ways to appeal to a diverse customer base, including cost-conscious college students, while ensuring the long-term viability of his operations. Catering was also an unexpected opportunity he hadn't originally planned for, requiring quick adaptation to meet new customer demands.
"They made everything super easy, and I was thrilled with the results. The service is free, their knowledge is top-notch, and I know I can always rely on them. Mrs. Patrice is amazing, and I know they've got my back whenever I need help. I couldn't ask for more."
The Mississippi SBDC Network, along with the RISE Center, provided Josh with the resources and expertise to overcome these challenges. Patrice Harris, his Business Counselor, helped him refine his business plan and strengthen his marketing strategy. MSBDCN also facilitated connections with banking professionals, including Walter Dyminski, who advised on strengthening his loan proposal. Together, they developed a solid loan package that ultimately secured funding. Additionally, MSBDCN provided ongoing support and guidance to help Josh adjust his offerings, such as introducing catering and affordable lunch plates to serve the local market better.
With Mississippi SBDC Network's support, Oxford Meat Company successfully opened its doors and has become a thriving business in Oxford. The loan approval enabled Josh to establish his dream business, while the marketing and operational strategies helped him attract a loyal customer base. By introducing catering and affordable options for college students, Josh expanded his reach and diversified his offerings. Today, he continues to grow his business with confidence, knowing the Mississippi SBDC Network is always available for guidance. Josh's success demonstrates the power of determination and the value of expert support in building a business from the ground up.