unleashing
national impact
igniting local
transformation
Kenzi Brown faced significant challenges in launching Coyote Pups Learning Den, including navigating rapidly changing COVID-19 regulations, meeting the community's critical need for reliable childcare, and securing startup funding. Additionally, she had to adapt quickly to the business's rapid growth, scaling operations from 30 to 140 licensed spots across two locations. Balancing personal and professional responsibilities and establishing credibility in the community further tested her resilience.
"There is so much value in the expertise the ND SBDC provides and questions they asked. "
The North Dakota Small Business Development Center (ND SBDC) played a pivotal role in the success of Coyote Pups Learning Den by providing Kenzi Brown with expert guidance, helping her refine her business plan, and offering valuable market insights. They connected her with funding opportunities, including the STAR Fund, which covered essential startup costs. Additionally, the ND SBDC supported her in developing strategies to navigate challenges like COVID-19 regulations and scaling operations to meet high demand. Their assistance laid the foundation for Coyote Pups' rapid growth and lasting impact in the Williston community.
Kenzi Brown's Coyote Pups Learning Den achieved remarkable success, launching in 2020 despite the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic and rapidly growing to meet the childcare needs of the Williston community. The business quickly reached full enrollment, expanding from 30 to 140 licensed spots across two locations. It earned widespread community trust and recognition, including being named the SBDC 2024 Women-Owned Business of the Year. With strong local support and a dedicated team, Kenzi transformed her vision into a thriving, award-winning childcare provider, making a lasting impact on local families and the economy.
Amanda Olson, founder of New Beginnings Imaging, navigated the familiar hurdles of launching a business—shifting from a stable career to entrepreneurship, developing a robust business plan with proof of concept and financial projections, and mastering social media to establish her brand's presence. Securing funding, managing legal and operational logistics such as licensing and pricing, and building trust and awareness in the community were also significant challenges.
"The ND SBDC provided moral support when needed, gave constructive feedback that was essential even when challenging, and guided me through the process of starting my own venture."
The ND SBDC provided Amanda Olson with essential support in launching New Beginnings Imaging by helping her refine her business idea, conducting market research, and supporting her in the development of a market survey to define her target demographic. Her advisor guided her in creating a detailed proforma budget and loan proposal, securing the funding needed for her business. Additionally, assistance was provided with operational logistics, such as establishing the legal structure, licensing, pricing, and website development. The ND SBDC also provided strategic advice for leveraging social media to build brand awareness and engage with the community. Beyond practical support, they offered constructive feedback and moral encouragement, enabling Amanda to navigate challenges and successfully establish her unique ultrasound business in Minot.
Amanda Olson's New Beginnings Imaging has achieved remarkable success since its launch in July 2023, providing unique in-home ultrasound services in Minot, North Dakota, and the surrounding area. Through strong community engagement, social media outreach, and word-of-mouth recommendations, Amanda has built a growing client base. She has also established key partnerships, including collaborations with a local midwife and a non-profit organization supporting expectant mothers. The business expanded its offerings to include radiologist-interpreted pregnancy and gynecology ultrasounds, enhancing its services. Amanda's transition from her previous career to entrepreneurship has been both professionally and personally fulfilling, allowing her to redefine the pregnancy ultrasound experience and make a lasting impact in her community.
Be More Colorful, founded by Matt and Katie Chaussee, worked through numerous obstacles on their path to success. Initially, they struggled to define their market focus and establish themselves in the emerging field of immersive technology. Building a business that prioritized people over profit required careful planning and resource management, which was further complicated by financial uncertainties. The COVID-19 pandemic posed significant setbacks, threatening the company's operations and finances. However, with support from the North Dakota Small Business Development Centers (ND SBDC), they overcame these hurdles by refining their business plan, securing critical funding, and accessing resources like PPP loans and state grants. Despite the difficulties, their resilience and strategic partnerships allowed them to transform obstacles into opportunities for growth.
"No matter how cool your product is, it will only succeed if it solves a problem. Always highlight the benefits of your product or service, not the features. Always get feedback from customers and potential customers before creating. They will guide you."
The ND SBDC played a pivotal role in Be More Colorful's success by offering tailored guidance and critical resources. They helped Matt and Katie Chaussee refine their business plan, develop detailed financial projections, and navigate complex funding processes. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the ND SBDC provided essential support in securing PPP loans, ensuring the company's survival during financial uncertainty. Beyond immediate needs, the ND SBDC assisted in preparing applications for substantial state funding, including $500,000 from the ND LIFT program and a $725,000 loan from the ND Development Fund. Their ongoing mentorship also helped the company earn a $200,000 award from the Yass Prize, bolstering their visibility and credibility. The ND SBDC's consistent support allowed Be More Colorful to overcome challenges, secure financial stability, and expand its innovative workforce development solutions.
Be More Colorful has seen transformative results, establishing itself as a pioneering force in workforce development with its innovative platform, CareerViewXR. Their immersive career exploration tools are now accessible in schools across North Dakota, empowering students to make informed career choices. The company has gained national visibility and recognition, securing key partnerships and support that have enabled significant growth. Through strategic guidance and robust planning, they have not only expanded their reach but also solidified their reputation as an industry leader, with a long-term vision to impact students across the United States. Their success underscores the effectiveness of their solutions and the strength of their mission-driven approach.
