unleashing
national impact
igniting local
transformation
Bernard Tablazon and his family relocated to Guam in 2020 to focus on the family business but they faced an unexpected hurdle: the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted their plans to launch the BBQ business. But true to their entrepreneurial spirit, the family pressed on.
"What you can do today can improve all your tomorrow mornings."
As their BBQ business gained momentum, Bernard realized they needed a more centralized kitchen and expanded services to meet growing customer demand. Beyond the physical space, Chubbs ventured into the digital realm, working with Guam SBDC to enhance its online presence and adopt innovative marketing strategies.
The family expanded their offerings with a breakfast menu and launched new products, including apparel and their own line of custom BBQ dry rubs. Catering services and online sales continued even when their restaurant doors were closed.
As Rob embarked on his entrepreneurial journey, he faced various challenges, including the need to account for the loss of his previous salary and manage personal financial obligations. He negotiated a partnership agreement with another company within the first two weeks of starting his business, paving the way for future revenue by marketing Guam's first AI-driven, IoT-enabled SaaS device.
"Seek support from available resources like the SBDC. Take action now!"
The SBDC provided valuable one-on-one confidential counseling, which offered Rob a supportive environment to explore his unique challenges and develop effective strategies for his new venture. Rob highlighted that his SBDC counselor, Jarneec Halsey, played a pivotal role in his development as an entrepreneur. As a fellow entrepreneur who had navigated similar challenges, Jarneec provided personalized advice and concrete roadmaps for business development. This support was instrumental in helping Rob build and strengthen his business plan while preparing him for grants and other business development opportunities.
He negotiated a partnership agreement with another company within the first two weeks of starting his business, paving the way for future revenue through the marketing of Guam's first AI-driven, IoT-enabled SaaS device.
Over the years, Mr. Juto has encountered two primary challenges in his business endeavors: effective management and securing adequate capital. These obstacles significantly hindered his ability to advance his business operations.
"The RMI SBDC has been instrumental in helping me develop a comprehensive business plan. Their support in areas like strategic planning, financial management, and marketing has been crucial in expanding my business on Wotje Atoll."
In response to these challenges, Mr. Juto sought assistance from the Republic of the Marshall Islands Small Business Development Center (RMI SBDC). He is receiving essential small business management counseling from the RMI SBDC, which aims to assist Mr. Juto with the resources and information including the necessary skills and knowledge to navigate the complexities of running a business in the Marshall Islands.
The Republic of the Marshall Islands Small Business Development Center (RMI SBDC) has provided assistance to Mr. Juto in the formulation of a comprehensive business plan proposal amounting to $43,000 aimed at facilitating the expansion of his business located on Wotje Atoll. This initiative is part of RMI SBDC's broader mission to support local entrepreneurs in their endeavors to grow and enhance their businesses.