unleashing
national impact
igniting local
transformation
Franchesca Fernandez, owner of Makservi Embroidery & Painting, Cranston, RI, contacted the RISBDC for assistance in completing the state MBE/WBE certification application. The application process is rather complex and involves multiple steps and potential obstacles.
"I don't have all the words to tell you that I AM SO GRATEFUL to you for helping me to get my certification. Thank you so much for taking the time to guide me through this process and review my application."
Amit Basnet, the RISBDC's Central RI Regional Director, worked with Franchesca over several months to complete the application process, providing direction, answering questions, assisting with revisions, and acting as an intermediary between the client and the state Division of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEDI).
The RI DEDI office approved Franchesca's application and supplemental information in February 2024, increasing her opportunities for state, and other, contracts. Franchesca said of Amit and the RISBDC, "I don't have the words to tell you that I AM SO GRATEFUL for the help you provided in getting my certification. Thank you so much for taking the time to guide me through this process." Since receiving her certification, Franchesca has gone on to receive a $10,000 grant for minority and women-owned businesses from the RI Commerce Corp., and is working on her WOSB certification for federal contracts.
Gassan Jaffal, a former skydiving instructor, has travelled all over the world. During his journeys, he found time to apprentice in chocolate factories in Fiji, Hawaii, and Brooklyn. When he made plans to settle in Rhode Island, he decided to launch his own high-end, "bean-to-bar" chocolate manufacturing business — and contacted the RISBDC for help in finding a location, understanding leases, licensing and permitting, and financing options.
"Despite the many obstacles concerning licensing, space, finance, etc. Maggie & Yashwant have been there to guide me through many of these questions and concerns which ultimately has given me a very realistic expectation of how difficult navigating in this environment can be. Ultimately though, The SBDC and the people working within it are professionals who want you to succeed and have the knowledge for helping you achieve your business goals! Their support has been crucial in the creation and development of my chocolate business."
Working with Providence Regional Director Yashwant Meghare and Food/Restaurant/Hospitality Business Advisor Maggie Longo, Gassan investigated several possible sites, eventually settling on the Hope & Main food incubator annex in Warren, RI. He began producing his delicious chocolate delicacies in early 2024, steadily building wholesale accounts and participating in trade shows.
Gassan was able to officially launch his business in January of 2024, and has been able to grow as he adds more profitable wholesale accounts to his client list. He continues to work with Yash and Maggie on range of issues, including pricing, record keeping and marketing. "Despite the many obstacles concerning licensing, space, financing, etc., Maggie and Yash have been there to guide me through many of these questions and concerns," Gasson said. "The RISBDC and the people working within it are professionals who want you to succeed and have the knowledge for helping you to achieve your business goals."
Catherina Novas, owner of Nova Learning Center in North Providence, RI, came to the RISBDC for help in developing financial forecasts for a planned faith-based child daycare center. While she had located a potential building in North Providence that had already served as a daycare center, she needed assistance in completing the financial portions of her business plan in order to seek funding to purchase the building.
"Their support goes beyond just professionalism; it feels like a partnership built on genuine care and understanding. The team's dedication to Nova Learning Center's success has made a significant impact, and I genuinely appreciate all the encouragement and expertise they have shared."
Cathy worked with the RISBDC's Providence Regional Director Yashwant Meghare and Start-Up Business Counselor Sue Davis to complete solid financial projections and a strong business plan.
The client was approved for a $650,000 SBA 504 loan in June 2024 that enabled her to purchase and renovate the North Providence building. A grand opening was held on August 24, attended by local officials. Cathy is now working with RISBDC Marketing Advisor Trish White to increase the visibility for her center through various marketing activities. "The RI SBDC has been truly invaluable to me," Cathy noted.
