When you walk into Rustic Paw Studio, you instantly feel like you have met a long-time friend. This specialty shop is a charming store offering unique bags, accessories, and women's clothing owned by Norma Thompson.
Challenge: Norma first contacted the Center in March 2023 for assistance in qualifying for The Shoppes at Grandon Plaza, a retail incubator project by Sterling Main Street designed to attract small businesses, create more retail shopping options, and bring people into downtown Sterling. Norma has wanted to open a brick-and-mortar store for a long time and felt that the "Shoppes at Grandon Plaza is a wonderful learning experiment for her as well as her husband."
How Illinois SBDC helped: Business Advisor Pam Clodfelter assisted Norma with her initial questions on certificates of resale. Pam explained business structures, proper registrations, and other items Norma should watch for with this program.
Result: Norma's application was accepted to be part of the program. Rustic Paw Studio became one of the four stores in the incubator program in downtown Sterling IL. When asked to share her experience with the SBDC at SVCC, Norma stated, "We are truly grateful for Illinois Small Business Development Center making it easier for us to get our small business going with Pam Clodfelter's guidance and direction throughout this process."
Learn More: To learn more about Rustic Paw Studio, find them on Facebook or visit them at 310 Second Ave #5, Sterling IL.