Challenge: Deb Proctor came to the Illinois SBDC at Sauk Valley Community College back in 2017 looking for assistance on how to build her luxury kennel space as well as how to properly establish her business in Illinois, create a formal business plan, and obtain financing. Deb has been working closely with her advisor, Justin Bergman, since 2020 on actively addressing her challenges to starting her business.
How Illinois SBDC helped: The Center and her advisor, Justin Bergman, have helped in numerous areas, such as business licensure, obtaining an FEIN, establishing tax accounts, creating several comprehensive business plans with financial projections, zoning, building and construction budgeting, market research, and operational planning.
Result: Deb Proctor was able to start and build her business and will officially open in early August 2022. Deb indicated that she will keep working with the Illinois SBDC, which has provided many valuable resources, support, knowledge, and tools to put her business in a position for success. When reflecting on her experience of working with Justin at the Illinois SBDC, she said, “It has been an exciting and growth-filled journey. Thank you, Justin and the Illinois SBDC, for guiding and supporting me along the way.”