The WI Small Business Development Center at UW-Madison works with hundreds of business each year. From start-ups to growing companies the SBDC assists clients as their businesses evolve. We work with individuals on business planning for start-ups, loan and financing preparation, management and operational issues as well as marketing and sales. The SBDC also offers no cost consultation, as well as non-credit courses.
“After [my consultant] Amy took a look at my business plan, she was able to let me know what I needed to add to be able to convince the financial institute about my plan to open a coffee shop. The consulting experience helped me to gain new business skills like knowing my numbers and being able to balance orders and keep track of our sales balance.”
~Priscah Norton, Coffee 4 All
See how the SBDC has helped these entrepreneurs start and grow their businesses!
Cookies By Design
Franchise owner Prue Lotharius employs three generations of family members at her gifting business.
American Provenance
Former middle school science teacher Kyle LaFond launched American Provenance in a remodeled machine shed on his family farm. Now, American Provenance products are sold on 5,000 shelves nationwide, in most major grocery stores, and online.
Forward Thai Boxing
Founded by Abbe Braun and Brandon Shoemaker, Forward Thai Boxing is housed in a newly renovated facility on Rimrock Road. Six instructors teach Thai boxing (Muay Thai) and Krav Maga.
Wildewood
Kate Holl, owner of Wildewood, brings her passion of plants to provide quality houseplants for her community.
Dolphin Swim Academy
Brittany Ballweg teaches kids to be confident, strong swimmers
Coffee4All Cafe
Priscah Norton’s Stoughton cafe serves food from many cultures and supports the local community
“[My SBDC consultant Amy is] emotionally tied to me and my success, and she’s very good at keeping me focused and on the right path. Amy is the voice of reason... One thing you lose when you leave the corporate world is your team, and the SBDC has almost become that for me.”
Kate Reithel, Mosquito Joe of Madison