Client Stories
From startups to growing companies, our mission at the SBDC is to help business dreams become a reality. Following are small business owners in southwest Minnesota that the SBDC had the opportunity to assist in achieving their dreams.
Full Smile Dentistry
Success Story
When Dr. Amy Full approached the Southwest Minnesota SBDC, she had a clear vision: to open a dental practice that would serve her community with compassion and skill. SBDC consultant Pam Lehmann recognized the potential in Amy's dream and worked closely with her to turn it into a thriving business. Through their collaboration, Amy and Pam developed a comprehensive business plan and budget, accounting for often-overlooked expenses like snow removal and rug cleaning. This meticulous planning helped Amy minimize surprises and feel confident as she built her practice from the ground up.
Opening in mid-March, Dr. Full's office quickly became a cornerstone of the community. Her practice welcomes patients from 6 months old to senior citizens, offering services ranging from routine exams to extractions and dentures. Amy's commitment to creating a comfortable environment for anxious patients sets her apart, as does her all-female staff in a traditionally male-dominated field. The success of Dr. Full's practice is a testament to her dedication, the support of the SBDC, and the power of hometown connections. Now accepting new patients, Amy continues to fulfill her childhood dream of providing exceptional dental care to her community
The Laundry Basket
Continued Small Business Success
Marie and her husband wanted to address a community need by starting a laundromat, driven by their desire to contribute to their community and create a viable business opportunity. Despite lacking previous experience in the industry, they were determined to learn and adapt.
Marie and her husband chose to work with the Southwest Minnesota SBDC again after successfully purchasing a business in the southwest region.
When exploring opportunities in Alexandria, they wanted to continue their successful relationship with their Business Consultant, Pam Lehmann. Pam remarks that their business is a wonderful success story worth sharing.
They worked with Pam and the Southwest SBDC through the business startup process, including writing a business plan and obtaining funding. They found a suitable location, which happened to be a former laundromat familiar to Marie. They were able to establish their business, now known as The Laundry Basket.
Marie and her husband decided to settle in Alexandria because of its supportive community and family environment. Their positive experience starting The Laundry Basket underscores their belief in the community's potential and their commitment to contributing to its growth and prosperity.
SBA recognizes Terri Wood as Woman-Owned Small Business of the Year
Nominated by the SW MN Small Business Development Center
Terri Wood's journey with Woody's Trucking, Inc. is a testament to the power of dedication, vision, and community support in building a successful small business.
From joining the company in 2008 to being recognized as the SBA's Minnesota Woman-Owned Small Business of the Year in 2024, Terri's leadership has propelled Woody's Trucking to new heights. Terri's approach to business emphasizes the importance of quality, dedicated employees, and strong customer relationships. She understands that Woody's Trucking's success is intricately linked to its customer satisfaction and the commitment of its workforce. By fostering a culture of camaraderie and respect, Terri has created a thriving environment where employees feel valued and motivated to excel.
Since its beginnings in Lester Prairie, MN, Woody's Trucking has steadily grown under Terri's guidance. Relocating to Wilmar, MN, in 2011 marked a significant milestone for the company, laying the foundation for future expansion. Duane Hoversten, business consultant for the SBDC, has worked with Woody's Trucking, assisting them with their business and vision. Terri's strategic vision and dedication to customer satisfaction have been instrumental in driving the company's growth, with Woody's Trucking now boasting a fleet of 18 trucks and offering transportation services to 40 contiguous states.
Terri's leadership extends beyond the day-to-day operations of Woody's Trucking. As a member of the Minnesota State SBDC Board, she shared her expertise and insights to support other small businesses in the community. Woody's Trucking's commitment to giving back is evident through its contributions to healthcare initiatives and community programs, demonstrating a genuine dedication to uplifting the communities it serves.
Congratulations to Terry Wood, the recipient of the SBA's Minnesota Woman-Owned Small Business of the Year award, Terri's accomplishments serve as an inspiration to entrepreneurs everywhere, proving that with hard work, determination, and a strong sense of community, anything is possible.
SBA recognizes SMSU grad Layne Lozinski as the Young Entrepreneur of the Year
Nominated by the SW MN Small Business Development Center
Layne Lozinski, a 23-year-old graduate of Southwest Minnesota State University (SMSU), has journeyed from a farm in Minneota, Minnesota, to becoming the SBA's Minnesota Young Entrepreneur of the Year. His success with Maxx Drainage, LLC is a testament to the power of hard work, vision, and community support, showcasing how passion, expertise, and strategic planning can lead to remarkable achievements. The SBA recognizes SMSU grad Layne Lozinski as the Young Entrepreneur of the Year, underscoring his remarkable contributions.
Growing up immersed in agriculture, Layne developed a deep understanding of the land and its needs. His involvement in 4H, FFA, and sports instilled a strong work ethic and a desire to excel, laying the groundwork for his entrepreneurial spirit.
While still a student, Layne identified a gap in the market for drainage system installation and repair services in Southwest Minnesota. At just 19 years old, he founded Maxx Drainage, LLC, drawing on his experience with a tiling company. This marked the start of his entrepreneurial journey.
With a focus on excellence and innovation, Layne guided Maxx Drainage, LLC toward steady growth and expansion. The company's services evolved to meet the diverse needs of agricultural clients, including field drainage systems and snow removal. Layne's commitment to comprehensive solutions set Maxx Drainage, LLC apart in the industry.
Throughout his entrepreneurial journey, Layne relied on the support of organizations like the Southwest SBDC. Their guidance was invaluable in navigating business complexities and securing financing for expansion projects. With their help, Layne purchased new equipment and accessed bonding programs, further propelling Maxx Drainage, LLC's growth.
Beyond business success, Layne remains deeply connected to his community. He actively supports youth agricultural programs, sponsors local athletics, and contributes to charitable causes. His hands-on approach to community development reflects a genuine commitment to making a positive impact beyond the business realm.
Layne Lozinski's journey with Maxx Drainage, LLC exemplifies entrepreneurial excellence. From humble beginnings to becoming a recognized leader in his field, Layne's story inspires aspiring entrepreneurs to dream big, work hard, and give back to their communities.
M & Em Handyman LLC Hardwick MN
Success Story
Through high school I worked various different construction/trade jobs. Right out of high school I joined the Army National Guard and served as a 13B cannon crewmember. I became a licensed insurance agent and sold insurance while attending college for Business Management. I became a Shipping/Inventory Manager/Customer Service Representative for a small assistive technology company out of Rice, MN. Then we moved to Spearfish, SD where I shifted gears back into construction and property maintenance. At the beginning of COVID we moved back to the area I grew up near Luverne, MN. I took a construction job out of the gate as we settled into our new acreage. During that time, I started picking up some side jobs and realized the demand was greater than I had imagined which is where the idea of M & Em Handyman LLC blossomed!
I recently took my contractors exam class and will be testing to be a licensed general contractor soon. Emily, my fiance, worked as a server and waitress throughout high school. She also went to school for Business Management. She attended Dakota County Technical College and played college volleyball. While in college, she was a waitress, nanny, and a distributor for It Works! Marketing. For the last 8 years, she has been working full-time from home as a direct sales agent for them. In her free time, she loves making cupcakes for other people.
Ruth Ann has been a great help getting this business off the ground and helping it run smoothly.
Since then, Ruth Ann has helped start a separate LLC for 2 rental properties that Emily (fiance), Makayla (sister), Mark (brother) and Matthew (myself) have purchased under contract in 2023. Having help analyzing properties with a rental income calculator has been a huge help.
In high school, I was a peer helper, volunteering throughout the community for various tasks. We have volunteered our time to help the city of Hardwick, MN, get its pickleball court nets up and running. We have also joined the Chamber of Commerce in Luverne, MN, and have enjoyed working with them and getting to know the community through that program.
It has been an exciting journey thus far and can’t wait to see what we make of it in the future! We would not be where we are today without the help of our local Economic Development Program and the SBDC with Ruth Ann, along with her network of professionals.
We are young entrepreneurs who saw a need for a service-based business and made a plan to make it happen. M & Em Handyman LLC started as a part-time venture and has endured into a full-time job for myself and a part-time job for Emily. We are excited to make a big impact on our surrounding communities by completing tasks for them that they do not have the time, tools, or skill set to complete.
Since starting the handyman business we have also started another business called Sterrett Properties LLC. Involved in the second LLC is Makayla, Mark, Emily, and I. This has been a great experience as it ties in well with the handyman business. From doing periodic maintenance tasks to completing apartment renovations, M & Em Handyman LLC has the knowledge and equipment to make that possible. It has been fun working with my siblings and fiance on various projects at our rental properties. It is giving us the opportunity to spend more time together, create a successful financial future, and, most importantly, learn together.
AutoNation in Redwood Falls, MN
Success Story
Ruben, a certified Automotive Technician with over two decades of experience in auto repair, had a deep passion for automobiles since childhood. Ruben and his wife Wendi decided to establish their own business in the automotive industry, driven by a strong desire to provide exceptional service and expertise to their community. Located in Redwood Falls MN, their business is quickly becoming a go-to destination for vehicle enthusiasts and everyday drivers alike.
Their commitment to quality and personalized service set them apart, earning the trust and loyalty of their customers. With a focus on providing exceptional customer service, Ruben's business consistently exceeded expectations. Ruben's ability to communicate in both English and Spanish further enhances the customer experience, allowing him to assist a broad range of clients with ease.
They offer a wide range of services, from engine and transmission repair to complete brake repair, electrical and computer diagnostics, and more. They also recognized a need for custom exhaust systems, lifted and lowered suspension work, lighting, custom wheels, and audio systems in the industry. Their SBDC consultant, Berny Berger, played a crucial role in their journey. Berny, who has been an SBDC consultant since January of 2017, brought her wealth of experience in business accounting, office management, and finance to the table. She had a keen eye for potential and recognized Ruben's hard work and determination. Berny noted, "I found Ruben to be very hard-working and diligent, with a lot of determination to reach his goal of owning his own auto repair business."
Their dedication to excellence extended to preventive maintenance services, tire sales, exhaust system repair, and everything in between. As their reputation grows, so does their business. Ruben's story is a testament to the power of expertise, passion, and dedication to customer satisfaction in the automotive industry.
Southwest Minnesota State University and the Minnesota SBDC Network is a proud part of the Department of Employment and Economic Development in the State of Minnesota. It is funded in part through a Cooperative Agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration. Reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities will be made if requested at least two weeks in advance. Contact the Southwest Minnesota Small Business Development Center or call 507.537.7386.