Michelle was working with a financial coach when she was encouraged to take her talent to the next level and start her own business. Community Action Duluth assisted her in investing in herself in what would eventually become her own business. Her financial coach at Community Action Duluth and friends of Michelle's encouraged her to reach out to the Northland Small Business Development Center. She expresses there is a lot to be learned when starting a business, and just like any learning curve in life, this also came with some challenges, though she feels fortunate she was not left to navigate any challenge independently. Michelle always felt highly supported by everyone at Northland Small Business Development Center as they guided her through learning business tools such as bookkeeping, sales tax, marketing, and applying for various grants available.
Bookkeeping, Sales Tax Compliance, Marketing, Available Grant Funding
Star Woman Designs officially opened in 2022, and Michelle is thankful for the support and education the Northland Small Business Development Center provided her every step of the way. Michelle finds entrepreneurship rewarding, and contributing her time, energy, and resources to her business lead her to financial independence. As Michelle's business grows, she feels a sense of freedom from being able to build her schedule around her family and stay true to the path of cultural revitalization while doing something she loves. Michelle is excited to explore different areas of art and new ideas, continue to expand and watch Star Woman Designs grow, and see what the future brings.
Planning and execution while obtaining funding for a rewarding project.
Business planning, financial projections, workforce development.
5 Family Ranch is a modern rustic event venue built from the ground up. Located at 2717 County Road 6, on four acres of rural Minnesota prairie just two miles outside of Marshall, 5 Family Ranch boasts breathtaking indoor and outdoor spaces. The 7,900 square foot Barn includes a Bridal Suite & Groom Suite, a stone fireplace & Large Mezzanine. Outside, you will find a large patio, beautiful landscaping, a pond with water features, as well as adequate parking for guests.
The pandemic shutdown happened just as Annie and Ryan Balow opened a Thai Pop restaurant. After six years of doing pop-up events and cooking in borrowed space and commercial kitchens, they were determined to make the new brick-and-mortar restaurant work despite the unexpected challenges related to the pandemic.
Financial projections, business expertise, loan packaging.
Three years later, Annie and Ryan run an ultra-popular 198-seat operation recently named the Best New Restaurant in Rochester. They credit the help of their regional Small Business Development Center, and particularly SBDC consultant Rick Indrelie, in helping them realize their dream. Ryan first called Rick for loan assistance, then called Rick regularly for advice, location ideas, and number-crunching. Rick's consistent support gave them the confidence to persist.
